OUR JOURNEY
1952: Beginnings
Missionary couple Alfie and May Johnston arrived in the Philippines with a vision to bring Christian literature through street evangelism and tract distribution.
1957-1961: Early Bookstore Expansion
OMF Publishers opened its first two bookstores—Good News Book Center in Calapan and Christian Book Supply in Manila. Branches in Baguio (1959) and Davao (1961) expanded its reach.
1966-1974: Rapid Growth & Formation of PCLI
The ministry expanded with acquisitions (including Good News Book Supply in Cebu) and restructured as Philippine Christian Literature, Inc. (PCLI) in 1974 amid new ownership laws.
1981-1987: Financial Crisis & Leadership Transition
A 1981 financial crisis forced closures, but strategic restructuring under Colin Johnston enabled recovery and led to a leadership change to Mr. Rey Halili in 1987.
1990-1991: Natural Disasters & Restructuring
An earthquake in 1990 and the Mt. Pinatubo eruption in 1991 severely impacted branches, prompting a new head office in Mandaluyong.
1992-1995: Recovery & New Initiatives
The ministry rebounded with the first Suppliers Day (1992), launched initiatives like the Christian Workers Book Club and Shoe Box Library Ministries, and secured a new head office in 1994.
1997-1998: Commercial Expansion & Music Ministry
A two‐storey commercial building in La Union was secured in 1997, and in 1998, PCBS Music Ministry was launched with the "Bagong Handog" concert.
2000-2009: Modernization & Digital Beginnings
A modern 4‑storey head office was established in Mandaluyong with upgraded systems (including POS and computerization). Leadership shifts included Ms. Josefina M. Cuyos' appointment (2008) and her eventual role as CEO (2009).
2011-2015: Digital Expansion & New Leadership
The Christian Books Webstore (2011) expanded distribution nationwide, and by 2015, David T. Ong assumed the role of Managing Trustee/CEO, streamlining operations and boosting branch growth.
2020-2024: Leadership Transition & Innovation
In 2020, Mr. David T. Ong retired as Managing Trustee/CEO to focus on his farm, and with board approval, Mrs. Esmeralda B. Dizon—formerly Managing Director—stepped in. Despite pandemic challenges, innovation prevailed with new branches and initiatives.