The leaders of the Evangelical Free Church of the Philippines (EFCP), together with the missionaries of the Evangelical Free Church of America (EFCA), played a pivotal role in laying the groundwork for the establishment of the Evangelical Theological College of the Philippines (ETCP). Their shared vision was driven by a deep awareness of the growing need within the Philippine church for trained and doctrinally grounded workers who could faithfully lead, teach, and strengthen congregations and Christian institutions.

As the evangelical movement expanded throughout the country, it became clear that there was a shortage of pastors, educators, and ministry leaders who had received solid biblical and theological preparation. This need was not limited to the Philippines alone—the church abroad also required workers who could confidently handle the Scriptures and carry out effective ministry within diverse contexts.

ETCP was established to help fill this gap by providing a strong educational program anchored in evangelical doctrine and committed to developing competent, spiritually mature, and service-oriented leaders. Although ETCP is a sectarian institution—rooted in a distinct evangelical theological tradition—it was never intended to serve only a single denomination.

Instead, its college department welcomes students from various evangelical backgrounds, as long as they share the same foundational biblical beliefs and practices. This interdenominational openness reflects ETCP's desire to contribute to the strengthening of the wider evangelical community, recognizing that the mission of the church extends beyond organizational boundaries.

Furthermore, ETCP's commitment to service and education goes beyond theological training. Its basic education department is open to students from a broad range of religious backgrounds, not limited to the evangelical tradition. By doing so, the institution provides an environment where students from different faith traditions can receive quality education within a setting that upholds Christian values.

This inclusive approach underscores ETCP's belief in academic excellence, character formation, and service to the wider community, while still maintaining its evangelical identity and mission-driven purpose. Through these initiatives, ETCP continues to play an important role in shaping men and women who will serve in churches, religious organizations, academic institutions, and various mission fields both in the Philippines and around the world.