Nestled in a quiet and provincial town of Antipolo in the 80’s, there stood a quaint learning center with big dreams founded by Faith Fundamental Baptist Church through its senior pastor, Rev. Dr. Conrado E. Edpao and his wife Mrs. Erminda M. Edpao
It was a humble institution, its single classroom was echoing with the laughter of just a handful of students. The dedicated teachers and staff believed in the power of education, and their mission was clear: to impart not only academic knowledge but also the teachings of Christ to the little ones in their care in order for them to live a meaningful life presently and for eternity.
The school began with spaces converted into classrooms in a huge compound which used to be a resort, and a chapel where students gathered for prayer and reflection. The teachers, fueled by passion and faith, worked tirelessly to create an environment that nurtured both the minds and hearts of their students.
The need to send the founder’s own children to a school with a Christian worldview prompted the need and a vision to expand to elementary education. But it was not as easy as that as resources were scarce for such an enormous vision to meet the government standards. But Rev. Dr. Edpao was passionate enough to work extra hard to share the vision and gather funds from his sphere of influence. He spearheaded constructing the facilities out of faith in order to offer higher courses. Parents on the other hand, drawn by the unique mission of the school, started enrolling their children. As the years passed, the small school slowly began to grow, not just in numbers and size, but in spirit. It was through constant prayers of the pastors and members of FFBC, faculty and staff, students and parents that its funding was bestowed. Out of Rev. Dr. Edpao’s huge faith through individuals touched by the Lord’s heart in believing the mission of the school, Rev. Dr. Theodore Martens of Faith Christian School, Trenton, New Jersey and Dr. Paul Choo of Singapore through the help of Rev. Dr. Mariano Leones paved the way for the school to provide facilities as required by and promised to the then Department of Education Culture and Sports for permit and recognition to be granted.
The foundation of the school was built on the principles of love, faith, and the teachings of Christ’s redemptive love. Students not only excelled academically but also developed a deep sense of self, community and service. The school’s commitment to nurturing the whole child — intellectually, physically, emotionally, socially and most of all spiritually— resonated with families seeking an education grounded in faith.
With the growing influx of students, the small school expanded its facilities, adding more classrooms year after year, a spacious library, a comfortable sanctuary for worship, a covered court for extracurricular activities, and sufficient learning laboratories. The chapel, the heart of the school, remained a place where students gathered for prayers and intimate communion with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
The success and impact of the school reached far beyond the town of Antipolo. Its graduates, armed with knowledge and fortified by faith, went on to make meaningful contributions to society and lived a purposeful life beyond self. The small school that started with a handful of students had transformed into a thriving institution, leaving an indelible mark on the lives it touched.
As the school grew, its mission remained steadfast – to educate individuals with the majesty of God’s creation, inspire young leaders, and instill Christ’s knowledge in the hearts of the youth so that they will live a life of purpose according to God’s calling. The journey from a small school to a significant educational institution was a testament to the power of a dedicated community united by a common purpose. Rev. Dr. Edpao’s vision which germinated from a small pursuit that eventually grew in time to far-reaching potentials remains in the spirit of the community he left behind. Praise be to God for His goodness and faithfulness manifested in every detail you see in our humble community.
