Philippine Publishing House Celebrates 110 Years of Literature Ministry

Amid heavy rains brought by Typhoon Trami, Philippine Publishing House (PPH) recently celebrated its 110th anniversary, marking a historic milestone in its mission to spread the gospel through literature.

The commemoration, held at the publishing house headquarters in Silang, Cavite, brought together leaders from various Adventist organizations, including PPH pioneers, a representative from the General Conference, Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD) leaders, representatives from the four regional headquarters in the Philippines, and PPH personnel. All gathered to honor the institution’s enduring legacy and its significant role in advancing the mission of the church through literature ministry.

In the keynote address, SSD president Roger Caderma highlighted the resilience and unwavering commitment of PPH, emphasizing how it has played a critical role in advancing the church’s mission, even in the face of enormous challenges. He commended the pioneers whose dedication laid the foundation for the publishing ministry and urged everyone to continue the work with renewed passion.

“We salute all our dedicated literature evangelists. PPH has been instrumental in advancing the publishing ministry, playing a crucial role in spreading the gospel. The church fully supports your efforts in using this powerful medium. The work of the publishing ministry stands unparalleled in its importance,” Caderma said.

The event featured a rich program, including historical presentations showcasing PPH’s journey from its modest beginnings to its present-day role as one of the leading Adventist publishing houses across the SSD. Partner organizations and institutions were also recognized for their untiring support to the mission of the publishing ministries.

Despite the challenges brought on by Typhoon Trami, the celebration pressed on, embodying the spirit of perseverance that has characterized PPH’s 110-year history. As PPH president Leonardo Heyasa said in his remarks, “The rains may pour, but the mission of spreading the gospel through the printed page continues unabated.”

Humble Beginnings

PPH was established in 1914 in a dilapidated horse stable in Malate, Manila, under the leadership of visionary missionary L. V. Finster, who started the print shop behind his house. With a clear mission to make the gospel accessible through printed materials such as tracts and pamphlets, PPH began as a small operation dedicated to spreading hope through literature.

As World War II drew to a close in 1945, retreating Japanese forces set the publishing house ablaze, leaving its plant and equipment in ruins. However, in July 1946, the foundations for a new building were laid in Caloocan, Metro Manila, marking a new chapter in PPH’s story of resilience.

Over the years, PPH evolved into a major publishing house, producing an extensive range of books, magazines, and other literature that have reached millions across the region, continuing to spread hope and faith. In 1960, Your Health and Your Home began circulation, which later transformed into Health and Home, the now widely read flagship publication of the publishing house.

To date, PPH has printed millions of copies of Health and Home, the longest-serving health magazine in the Philippines. In 2005, it was honored as the Best Informative Magazine by the National Products Quality Excellence Awards, solidifying its role as a trusted source of health information.

On January 19, 2022, the PPH relocated to its new building. From its humble beginnings as a makeshift printing press to becoming the largest Adventist publishing house in Asia, the Lord has faithfully guided this institution in its mission to share the gospel of hope through the printed word.

The Philippine Publishing House remains steadfast in its commitment to share the message of hope through literature, remaining a source of faith in a constantly changing world, church leader said. “This anniversary is not just a celebration of the past but a recommitment to the future as PPH continues to expand its reach and relevance in the mission of spreading the good news.”

The original version of this story was posted on the Southern Asia-Pacific Division news site.