By Natalie Hazel Quimlat Three ecclesiastical territories in the Bicol region marked their 75th anniversaries this week, commemorating a historic Church reorganization that reshaped Catholic governance across southern Luzon. The milestone traces its roots to Pope Pius XII’s 1951 papal bull Quo in Philippina Republica, which elevated Caceres to a metropolitan archdiocese and created the dioceses of Legazpi and Sorsogon. The Archdiocese of Caceres celebrated the diamond jubilee of its elevation with a diocesan assembly followed by a thanksgiving Mass at the Naga Metropolitan Cathedral attended by clergy and lay faithful. During the assembly, delegates approved revised constitutions and by-laws governing the youth commission, parish pastoral council, parish finance council and commission for ecclesial structures. Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon said the updated policies are intended to broaden participation among clergy and lay faithful while strengthening accountability and transparency across the archdiocese. Preaching during the anniversary Mass, Alarcon said the revised documents reflected a decision to follow Christ “with intention and purpose” and urged Catholics to continue building a synodal Church. In Legazpi, Bishop Joel Baylon formally opened the diocesan diamond jubilee by opening the Jubilee Door at St. Gregory the Great Cathedral before leading a thanksgiving celebration with the faithful. Pilgrims who visit the cathedral through Dec. 31 and fulfill the Church’s prescribed conditions may receive a plenary indulgence during the jubilee year. Baylon urged Catholics to become “a Church that cares” by listening to the cries of the poor and accompanying those suffering from injustice and hardship. He also highlighted diocesan programs supporting poor families through livelihood assistance and charitable outreach while encouraging responsible stewardship of creation, respect for human dignity and commitment to social transformation. The celebration also welcomed members of the deaf community, underscoring the diocese’s continuing effort to build a more inclusive and synodal local Church. In neighboring Sorsogon, the anniversary coincided with the opening of the diocese’s second diocesan synod under the theme, “I am with you.” Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Charles Brown presided over the thanksgiving Mass, encouraging Catholics to journey together toward God’s kingdom and faithfully hand on the faith to future generations. Bishop Jose Alan Dialogo described the anniversary as “a gathering of hearts full of thanksgiving” for God’s enduring faithfulness and providence throughout the diocese’s 75-year history. When the dioceses were established in 1951, Sorsogon covered the provinces of Sorsogon and Masbate, while Legazpi served Albay and Catanduanes before additional dioceses were created in subsequent decades. Today, the Archdiocese of Caceres serves as the metropolitan see for six suffragan dioceses, reflecting the continued growth of the Catholic Church across the Bicol region.

By Jonnah Abellano The Archdiocese of Caceres marked a significant milestone on June 29, 2026, celebrating the 75th anniversary of its elevation to an archdiocese. Rather than focusing on grand celebrations, the observance emphasized “system-building,” highlighting efforts to strengthen structures that promote greater participation of the faithful in the life and mission of the Church. To ensure long-term pastoral vitality, the Archdiocese introduced four updated structural frameworks designed to promote greater collaboration and stewardship. During an assembly held at the Legaspi Hall of the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Our Lady of Peñafrancia, representatives from key councils and commissions presented updated directives. Ms. Julma Narvadez introduced revised guidelines for the Parish Pastoral Council, aiming to deepen the collaborative role of the laity in parish life. Atty. Eusebio Alvina outlined updated protocols for the Parish Finance Council, emphasizing transparency and shared responsibility in financial stewardship. Following this, Architect Mariel May Gamalinda presented new directives for the ACCESS (Archdiocese of Caceres Commission for the Conservation of Ecclesiastical Structures), highlighting the community’s shared responsibility in preserving the Church's physical heritage. Lastly, Maricar T. Cortez, coordinator of the Caceres Youth Commission, discussed the revised by-laws designed to provide young people with more meaningful opportunities to engage in the Church's mission. In a forward-looking initiative, the promulgation decree declared the four documents ad experimentum, or valid for a one-year trial period. This approach avoids rigid finalization of structures, promoting a listening Church that remains open to evaluation, feedback, and revision. Over the next year, the Archdiocese will gather input from the faithful to ensure that the implemented systems are responsive to pastoral needs. From intellectual fellowship to spiritual communion Following the presentation of these frameworks, the celebration transitioned to the Naga Metropolitan Cathedral for a Solemn Thanksgiving Mass, presided over by the Most Rev. Rex Andrew C. Alarcon, Archbishop of Caceres. In his homily, he remarked, “Ngonian na siniselebrar ta an ika-75 anibersaryo kan arkidiocesis, giniguirumdom ta man an satong naka-agi. An memorya ta an nagtatahi sa naka-agi asin nagtatao nin kahulugan sa mga nangyayari asin mangyayari sato. Ining selebrasyon, dae lang pagguirumdom kan naka-agi, kundi kan karahayan nin mahal na Diyos na iyong ginigikanan kan gabos na karahayan.” Archbishop Alarcon emphasized that the newly launched documents represent milestones in the Church's journey, describing them as fruits of collective memory, shaped by past reflections, shared decisions, aspirations, and established systems meant to guide the community's continued progress. He further stressed the importance of community, noting that there are many voices and diverse perspectives; no single individual can recall everything. Recounting history should involve the wider community, as the memory of the Church is collective, shaped and enriched by all. Thus, he called on parish priests, lay leaders, and ministry coordinators to safeguard this shared memory of faith and community. “As one Church”, he said, “the faithful are called to walk together in solidarity, accompanying those who are lost, supporting those who are burdened, and continuing the shared journey of faith.” As the Archdiocese of Caceres enters its diamond jubilee year, it reaffirms its commitment to a synodal path of renewal, marked by participation, accountability, and shared mission. The initiatives launched during the general assembly are expected to guide the local Church in strengthening its pastoral structures while remaining attentive to the lived experiences of the faithful it serves. Photos courtesy of Jerwin Dumalasa

By Natalie Hazel Quimlat “This is a call and prayer for accountability, truth, justice, and responsibility in our country.” With these words, Bishop Herman Abcede of Daet urged the clergy, religious and lay faithful to participate in the White Ribbon Movement March on June 28, Sunday. Abcede issued the circular regarding the March yesterday, Feast of St. John the Baptist. “In solidarity and support for the White Ribbon Movement March, I encourage everyone to wear white when attending Mass,” the Bishop said. A white ribbon may be worn, pinned or displayed in public places on Sunday “as a visible sign of our shared desire for integrity, transparency and good governance”. Bishop Joel Baylon of Legazpi also issued a pastoral appeal for truth, justice and national renewal on the same day, encouraging the faithful to participate in the Sunday mass and to wear white or a white ribbon. "This is a visible sign that genuine renewal begins with each one of us," Baylon said. The Bishop also reminded the faithful that these advocacies must become a way of life. "As followers of Christ, let us continue to seek the truth, reject misinformation, resist every form of corruption, and exercise prudent discernment in all that we hear, share and do." These efforts are in unity with the pastor message issued by the President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), Archbishop Gilbert Garcera of Lipa. Last June 22, Garcera encouraged the faithful not to lose hope and to join the march “prayerfully and respectfully”. He also urged them to participate in the Sunday mass. “The Eucharist renews hearts and transforms lives, enabling us to become instruments of justice, reconciliation and hope,” he said. He also sought the intercession of Our Lady of Guadalupe, whose pilgrim image is currently visiting the country. “May she intercede for our people, guide our leaders and lead us closer to her Son, Jesus Christ.” The White Ribbon Movement, according to a statement the group published on social media, is “a peaceful, constitutional, non-partisan, God-centered and people-empowered movement, seeking to awaken moral courage, responsible citizenship, and collective action for the moral and spiritual renewal of our nation”. Represented by a white ribbon to stand for conscience, purity, peace, integrity, and moral courage, the Movement is composed of the convenors of the Inter-Religious Leaders Council for National Transformation (IRLCNT), faith-based communities, civic organizations, professionals, youth leaders, and advocates. Last June 19, a press conference was organized by the Movement to discuss their advocacies on anti-corruption, anti-political dynasty and electoral reform. The gathering also served as an invitation to the June 28 March, to be held at the EDSA People Power Monument.

By Natalie Hazel Quimlat Slated on July 26 at the Archbishop Legaspi Hall of the Basilica Minore de Peñafrancia, the Gawad Josefina Bakhita 2026: A Diamond Legacy of Championing Safety and Protection of Women and Children aims to showcase the initiatives and groundwork of those deeply committed to promote and defend the safety, dignity, healing, and protection of women and children. According to its organizer, the Caceres Office for Women and Children Protection (COWCP) headed by Fr. Jhonan’z Vibar, the Gawad “seeks to celebrate courageous service, compassionate accompaniment, survivor-centered ministries, and community-based protection programs that embody the Church’s mission of justice, care, and human dignity”. Awardees may be individuals, parishes, institutions, organizations, and advocates. Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon of Caceres supported the initiative, saying that it “is a profound expression of the Church’s unwavering commitment to uphold the dignity of every human person”, especially women and children prove to be among those most vulnerable in society. Alarcon added that the initiative will also highlight the work of those who continue to “build spaces of safety, healing and hope”. He wishes that efforts and initiatives for safeguarding and anti-human trafficking will be sustained and that through this program, greater collaboration for such advocacies will be strengthened within the local Church of Caceres.

By Natalie Hazel Quimlat At the Good Shepherd Chapel of the Holy Rosary Major Seminary in Naga City, priest formators, teachers, students, and seminarians of both the Holy Rosary Major and Preparatory Seminaries gathered for the Mass of the Holy Spirit yesterday, June 10. Caceres Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon officiated the mass that opened the new academic year. In his homily, Alarcon underlined the importance of being a participative Church and called on the seminarians to be more sensitive to the needs of the people and the community they serve. The communities also witnessed the release of the theme song for the Diamond Jubilee of the Archdiocese, composed by Fr. Xavier Amoroso. The Holy Rosary Major Seminary welcomes 184 seminarians for the Philosophy and Theology Departments, and students for the Diploma Courses they offer. On July 31, the community will officially welcome its new Rector, Fr. William Santiago, who succeeds Fr. Joey Gonzaga, the fifteenth Rector of the Seminary. At present, Fr. Joaquin Camano serves as the Rector of the Holy Rosary Preparatory Seminary in San Jose, Camarines Sur.

By Jonnie M. Dulfo & Adriell B. Soreta As part of its continuing preparations for the celebration of 450 years of faith and Christian community, the St. Mary Magdalene Parish in Bula, Camarines Sur recently gathered parishioners, devotees and local residents in three meaningful events that highlighted the Parish’s rich heritage, vibrant devotion and strong sense of community. Under the guidance of Rev. Fr. Rolando Canonce, Parish Priest, the celebrations were designed not only to commemorate the Parish’s historic milestone but also to deepen appreciation for the spiritual and cultural treasures that have shaped generations of Bulaceños. The activities opened with Pagsalingoy, a Parish thanksgiving and fellowship gathering that brought families, organizations and church workers together in a joyful evening of gratitude. Highlighted by the Santacruzan and moments of communal sharing, the event celebrated the enduring bonds of faith that continue to unite the parish community. The following day, parishioners gathered for the Grand Flores de Mayo, a vibrant expression of Marian devotion. Children, youth, catechists, and families participated in faith formation activities, a Living Rosary, Marian coronation, and a solemn procession in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The celebration served as a reminder that devotion remains a living tradition passed on from one generation to the next. Completing the series of activities was “SaySay Bula: An Istorya kan Simbahan sa Bula,” a symposium that explored the history of the local Church and its role in shaping the town’s identity. Through stories, historical accounts and reflections, participants gained a deeper understanding of the sacrifices, faith and perseverance of those who built and sustained the Parish through the centuries. For Fr. Canonce, preserving history and nurturing devotion go hand-in-hand. As the Parish approaches its 450th year, efforts continue to ensure that both the tangible heritage of the Church and the living faith of its people remain cherished and strengthened. More than commemorative events, these celebrations reflect a faith community looking back with gratitude and moving forward with renewed commitment, carrying the legacy of St. Mary Magdalene Parish to the generations yet to come.

By Natalie Hazel Quimlat "Do not be mere spectators." Speaking to hundreds of devotees of Ina, Our Lady of Peñafrancia, at the Basilica Minore de Peñafrancia in Naga City last May 22, Caceres Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon emphasized the pillars of a synodal church: communion, participation and mission. Devotion must deepen our sense of communion with others, the Archbishop said. "It must let us grow in empathy, compassion and solidarity towards others." "We desire a Church that walks with us, a Church that is in our midst.” The Archbishop urged the devotees to ask themselves what they need to change or do more to make the Church more inclusive and in communion with others. He gave the Peñafrancia de Mayo as an example of an inclusive Church, a Church that allows women to participate in the devotional practices traditionally joined by men alone. Such an example is the fluvial procession. The pagoda is boarded by men every September, and by women every May. Alarcon also emphasized the Caceres Jubilee team: "Gabos kaayon, Gabos may gibúbon", calling all those present to actively participate in the life of the Church. He decried selfishness and greed, hindrances to true service to God and others. In closing, Alarcon called the devotees to a life of mission, to fear missing out on the mission entrusted to us by God. "The Lord desires that the Good News reaches everyone." The eucharistic celebration capped the Peñafrancia de Mayo on the occasion of the 44th dedication of the Basilica. Currently, Fr. Eugene Lubigan serves as the Rector of the Basilica, with Fr. Jene Lois Sarmiento as Vice-Rector.

By Natalie Hazel Quimlat At the novena mass held in honor of Mary, Mother of the Church last May 20, mass presider and homilist, Bishop Luisito Occiano of Virac, highlighted the significant contributions of the Daughters of Mary (DM) sisters not only to the Philippine local Church, especially in the Bicol region where they take root, but also to the many Dioceses abroad where the sisters have been present as missionaries. Reflecting on the Wedding at Cana, Occiano highlighted three attributes of Mary that the sisters have emulated and must continue to do so as they carry on with their mission. “Like Mary, the sisters are attentive to the needs of the people whom they serve,” he said. This makes their presence fundamental in building communities. “The scarcity of the wine of hope, wine of faith and wine of charity have led to the establishment of your Congregation and since, the gaps were filled with your presence.” The Bishop also emphasized the call towards a synodal church, urging the sisters to develop a culture of deep listening instead of rigid administration. In addition, Occiano called the sisters to identify their modern-day Cana moments. “These are times when vocation seems few, resources are strained.” During these times, he told the sisters to be like Mary: “To trust in Jesus’ time. Miracles have happened and will continue to happen because of our faith," he said. In closing, the Bishop encouraged the sisters to always fill the jars to the brim. He advocated against being half-hearted and mediocre in doing their mission, and told them to always give their best. “Fill the jars to the very brim and allow Jesus to facilitate the miracle of transformation.” Occiano, Chairman of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines Episcopal Committee for Synodal Transformation, is one of the Bicol Bishops who celebrated the novena masses in honor of Mary, Mother of the Church at the Mater Ecclesiae Formation Center in Cadlan, Pili. The Daughters of Mary Mother of the Church Institute was founded in 1966 by Archbishop Teopisto Alberto, second Archbishop of Caceres, and Mother Mary Therese Vicente. The DM sisters are widely known for their work in catechism, primary schools and administration.

By Jonnah Abellano and Lilette Manauis Two hundred thirty nine delegates from various parishes, schools and religious organizations from across the Bicol region transformed the halls of Naga City's Our Lady of Peñafrancia Minor Basilica into a hub for modern evangelization on May 18, 2026, in a historic bid to claim the "digital continent" for the faithful. The conference, titled "Communicating Christ," marked the pioneering regional gathering of Social Communications (SocCom) ministers, campus journalists and social media enthusiasts of religious organizations in Bicol. It was designed to answer Pope Leo XIV’s mandate for the 60th World Day of Social Communications, with the theme “Preserving Human Voices and Faces.” The event confronted cutting-edge issues like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity while grounding participants on pastoral service, evangelical mission and authentic relational content. Edwin Lopez, Senior Director for Asia Pacific of EWTN Global Operations and keynote speaker, challenged the audience to "reclaim human voices and faces in the age of AI." He posed a question to them asking whether they attract people or drive them away. He reasoned that if we drive people away then we fail as social communicators. Further he reminded everyone that “the job of a social communicator is not just to be an influencer but to be a companion.” With this he emphasized that the gap between how we treat popular people and how we treat small people is hypocrisy. On equal footing, Manila Bulletin ICT Head Art Samaniego Jr. armed the delegates against modern digital dangers with his lecture on "Cybersecurity Threats in the Church." During his talk he directly discussed the intersection of faith and modern technology. He advanced the principle of “verify and trust” when it comes to dealing with anything in social media. Thus promoting critical thinking by urging media users to adhere to the “culture of skepticism.” The participants quickly connected these macro-concepts during the afternoon breakout sessions. Led by a dynamic team of speakers and facilitators, four parallel workshops offered deep dives into modern ministry. Ana-Liza S. Macatangay spoke on the topic, “Getting to Know the Roles of the Parish SocCom Team.” She began by breaking down the essential roles within the Parish SocCom team. Concurrently, Joenhel C. Arcilla shared practical tips on spotting fake news and navigating digital disinformation on topic “Spotting Fakes, Telling Truths: Media Literacy and Disinformation.” In another parallel session titled “AI for Ministry: Ethical Use, Cathechetical Content. And Creative Evangelization,” Omar P. Aguilar discussed the ethics of AI, showing ministers how to safely use it for catechesis and creative evangelization. Synchronously, Mark Manuel M. Montero paved the tracks to modern social media marketing strategies tailored specifically for church growth. "Technology, when guided by faith and responsibility, can become a highway for communicating Christ," said Ryan Perez, who attended the workshop on AI for Ministry and Creative Evangelization. Perez noted that learning to navigate new AI tools changed his perspective on modern ministry. "Effective and ethical use of AI safeguards the integrity of catechetical content. Innovation serves the Church not as a replacement for authentic witness, but as a creative aid to reach hearts and minds." Sharing this perspective, Rev. Fr. Danilo V. Arnante of St. Peter Baptist Parish in Ocampo, Camarines Sur, and a digital content creator who has become prolific in sharing a priest’s life and ministry through social media, emphasized that while AI can help evangelize, teach, and create, it cannot replace empathy, presence, and genuine human encounter. "One lesson from the seminar [is that] while technology grows smarter, discernment must grow deeper, especially in detecting scams, misinformation, and using AI responsibly for truth and evangelization," Fr. Arnante noted. For other digital ministers, the conference provided practical blueprints for expanding the Church's online reach. Attendees learned that holy intentions still require effective digital strategy to cut through online noise. Elmer Registrado, who joined the Social Media Marketing workshop, walked away with concrete tactics to optimize his parish's digital footprint. "I learned that posting images and messages on social media must be timed carefully, specifically at 6:00 AM or 7:00 PM when people routinely check their phones," Registrado shared. He also emphasized the necessity of consistency and legality, noting that ministries must post at least three times a week per subject and strictly use licensed, authentic software to maintain digital credibility. Beyond algorithms and schedule optimization, the conference ultimately forced a deeper reflection on the core purpose of Catholic communication. John Wilson Mota, CCCOM volunteer, summarized the ultimate vision of the historic regional event as a spiritual bridge. "The purpose of Communicating Christ is to unite people with God through effective communication," Mota said. He challenged his fellow church ministers to act as deliberate instruments of truth in an era easily compromised by online disinformation. According to Mota, the conference leaves Bikolnon communicators with a clear, three-fold mandate aimed at transforming their ministry in the digital age. First, they are called to "be present" by recognizing and deeply feeling the presence of God in every online and digital endeavor. Second, they must "validate" their work, maintaining keen eyesight and attentive listening to ensure that all shared content remains entirely truthful and accurate. Finally, they are tasked to "enlighten" their communities by working in close collaboration with priests and parish leaders, ensuring that all outward communications bring genuine enlightenment and actively foster the growth of the Church. The Episcopal Commission on Social Communications (ECSC), led by Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon, organized the event in collaboration with the Caceres Commission on Communications (CCCOM) of the Archdiocese of Caceres and the Bicol State College of Applied Science and Technology (BISCAST) a state college in Naga City. The event took off through a paraliturgical ceremony presided by Fr. Jene Lois Sarmiento followed by a welcome remark by Caceres Commission on Communications Director, Fr. Francis Tordilla. And it meaningfully concluded through a mass presided by Archbishop Alarcon. Before the final blessing, the participants professed their commitment to serve as effective communication ministers by evangelizing through responsible use of social media, constantly seeking the truth, and exercising compassion, empathy and integrity. As delegates return to their respective dioceses, they carry a unified strategy to ensure the Bikolnon Church communicates not itself, but the living Christ.

By Hannah Brockhaus/EWTN News The Vatican announced Monday that Pope Leo XIV’s first encyclical will be published on May 25 with the title Magnifica Humanitas. Pope Leo will speak at a presentation for the release of the social encyclical — a papal letter to the Church — at 11:30 a.m. Rome time on May 25 in the Vaticanʼs Synod Hall. The Vatican also confirmed that the full title of the encyclical is Magnifica Humanitas: “On the Protection of Human Dignity in the Age of Artificial Intelligence.” Magnifica Humanitas is Latin for “magnificent humanity.” Leo signed the letter, which is expected to provide moral guidance on the digital revolution and emerging technologies such as AI, on May 15. The speakers at the encyclicalʼs presentation will be: Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, prefect of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith; Cardinal Michael Czerny, SJ, prefect of the Dicastery for Integral Human Development; Anna Rowlands, professor of ethics and political theology at the University of Durham in the United Kingdom; Christopher Olah, co-founder of Anthropic USA; and Léocadie Lushombo, it, professor of theological ethics at the Jesuit School of Theology at Santa Clara University in Berkeley, California. Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin will offer concluding remarks. May 15 marked the 135th anniversary of the publication of Pope Leo XIII’s 1891 encyclical on capital and labor, RerumNovarum, “Of New Things” — the first in a long line of social encyclicals produced in the modern era of the Catholic Church. Pope Leo XIV indicated at the beginning of his pontificate that he intended to follow in the footsteps of his predecessor Leo XIII by responding to todayʼs industrial revolution: “developments in the field of artificial intelligence.” Addressing the College of Cardinals on May 10, 2025, the new pope said he chose to take the name Leo XIV for various reasons, “but mainly because Pope Leo XIII in his historic encyclical Rerum Novarum addressed the social question in the context of the first great industrial revolution.” “In our own day,” he continued, “the Church offers to everyone the treasury of her social teaching in response to another industrial revolution and to developments in the field of artificial intelligence that pose new challenges for the defense of human dignity, justice, and labor.”

By Natalie Hazel Quimlat Over 230 participants gathered last May 18 at the Archbishop Legaspi Hall of the Basilica Minore de Peñafrancia in Naga City for a regional conference and workshop organized by the Archdiocese of Caceres for Social Communications Ministries. Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon of Caceres, Chairman of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines Episcopal Commission on Social Communications (CBCP ECSC), celebrated the mass that capped the whole-day event. In his homily, Alarcon focused on one’s relationship with Christ, the foundation and pillar of one’s work in the Ministry. According to the Archbishop, for one to communicate Christ, one must remain connected with Christ. He urged participants to “be sensitive to Christ’s message and to be more receptive to the promptings of the Holy Spirit”. He also highlighted the importance of purposeful communication and to always bring Christ to others. “Jesus is the eternal Word that is ever present and ever constant. He adds depth and light to our messages; and with Him, we become more effective,” he said. Alarcon also challenged the participants to be more physically present as they establish authentic human connections, amid advancements in digital communication. Echoing the Holy Father’s message for World Communications Sunday entitled “Preserving Human Voices and Faces”, the Archbishop reiterated that through one’s face, encounter occurs, and in one’s voice lies the uniqueness of a human person. This need for true human connection was also highlighted by keynote speaker, Edwin Lopez, CBCP ECSC Executive Secretary and current Executive Director for Asia Pacific of the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN). According to Lopez, God’s communication strategy with man was His incarnation. “God chose to have an encounter with us, to be present in our midst and to accompany us,” he said. Lopez also urged participants to ask themselves if their presence serves as a channel in drawing others to God. Themed “Communicating Christ”, the event, which was a response to the call of Pope Leo XIV on World Communications Sunday, was organized by the Caceres Commission on Communications headed by Fr. Francis Tordilla, in partnership with the CBCP ECSC.

by Fatima Sola Bandin The Caceres Youth Commission of the Archdiocese of Caceres successfully conducted the Archdiocesan Conference of Youth Ministers (ACYM) last May 9-10 at the Holy Rosary Major Seminary. Guided by the theme “Katood: Gabos Kaayon, Gabos May Gibuhon”, the ACYM gathered youth directors, ministers, formators, and leaders across the various vicariates to discern the future of the youth ministry in the Archdiocese. Pagsalingoy On its first day, themed “Pagsalingoy: Going Back to our Roots”, the Conference focused on rediscovering the identity, mission and history of the Youth Ministry in Caceres. The morning sessions gave meaningful reflections and lessons as the former youth directors shared insights rooted in their experiences as leaders of the Ministry. Rev. Fr. Fidel Mamerto Bagayaua, youth director (1987-1996) emphasized the importance of looking back at the roots, identity and mission of the Youth Ministry in Caceres. Rev. Fr. Danilo Imperial, youth director (1979-1987), discussed “The Graced Story of the Caceres Youth Ministry,” sharing the beginnings, milestones and journey of the Ministry through the years. After, a talk show focusing on the Christological Pattern of the Youth Ministry in Caceres convened Mr. Jovan Galvo, a former youth leader, and former Youth Directors: Rev. Fr. Danilo Imperial, Rev. Fr. Fidel Mamerto Bagayaua, Rev. Fr. Joseph Wilfred Almoneda, VG (1997-1998), Rev. Fr. Rex Luis Hidalgo (1998-2001 & 2006-2013), and Rev. Fr. Noel Sumangui, SDB (2001-2003) who also participated in answering the questions via video presentation. The conversation focused on the speakers’ experience of the Life-Death-Resurrection Cycle during their time as leaders of the Ministry. Bro. Francesco Janne Labuntog, SJ discussed the “Trends of Religiosity Among the Young”. He presented the different perspectives of today’s youth towards religion and faith. Afterwhich, the delegates reflected on the talks given during the day and engaged in spiritual conversations which highlighted the importance of prayer and discernment while also listening to and sharing with other delegates. Insights gathered from the successfully concluded VCYMs were presented to the body alongside the Vicarial Statements. The Initial Apostolic Directions—which featured the goals of the Youth Ministry for the next five years—were also introduced to the delegates. Questions and suggestions were discussed. The first day ended with a fellowship night that highlighted the ‘pakikipag-katood’ among young people. After, all came together to close the night in prayer. Pangiturugan Guided by the theme “Pangiturugan: Dreaming for the Youth in Caceres”, the final Apostolic Directions entitled “Katood ni Ina, Katood ni Cristo” were named and presented to the body on the second day of the Conference. Afterwards, the Ministerial Directions were crafted. In the afternoon, before finally concluding the two-day event, the groups presented their proposals, which will be the foundation of the Executive Summary for the ‘KATOOD 5-Year Apostolic Plan’ of the Caceres Youth Commission. The ACYM formally ended with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist presided over by His Excellency, Most Rev. Rex Andrew C. Alarcon, D.D, Archbishop of Caceres. Within the Mass, the initial directions from the ACYM were presented to the Archbishop, and a Closing Ritual of Commitment and Induction of Council Members was done. The ACYM is a call to mission, where young hearts and minds come together in synodality towards a shared vision for the future, where the Archdiocese walks with the young and journeys with them, in faith and hope.