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By NOSTRUM Publication NAGA CITY — The Philosophy Department of the Holy Rosary Major Seminary, comprised of resident-seminarians from the Archdiocese of Caceres and the Diocese of Virac, hosted the Bicol Association of Philosophy Seminarians (BAPS) Meet 2025 with the theme “Bikolanong Pilosopo: Ilaw nin Paglaom” last February 20-22 at the said seminary. 6 other seminaries in the Bicol region participated in the said event, namely: Mater Salutis College Seminary of the Diocese of Legazpi, Society of the Most Holy Trinity College Seminary (SOLT), Sedes Sapientiae Formation House of the Diocese of Masbate, Saint Benedict Diocesan Seminary of the Diocese of Libmanan, Our Lady of Peñafrancia Seminary of the Diocese of Sorsogon, and Holy Trinity College Seminary of the Diocese of Daet. Almost 200 seminarians attended the 3-day assembly. Rev. Fr. Joey D. Gonzaga, Rector of Holy Rosary Major Seminary, officially welcomed the participants and presided over the eucharistic celebration that marked the opened event. In his homily, he said, “True wisdom is the integration of truth into the moral and spiritual life of a person. This means that one can call himself wise if he can integrate truth into his moral and spiritual actions. The law, the truth—who is God Himself—will guide you in all your decisions and actions.” In the Age of AI On the second day, Federico Jose T. Lagdameo, Ph.D., a Philosophy professor of both the Ateneo de Naga and Ateneo de Manila Universities and a professor at the Holy Rosary Major Seminary as well, gave a lecture with the theme “A Return to Virtue: Coping and Thriving in our Technological Condition”. The discourse revolved around Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its effect on humans, the economy, and society. Dr. Lagdameo emphasized that the progressive technological advancements in this time require discernment of character traits, and developing technomoral virtues that strive to live a good life. At the end of the lecture, he said, “It is not our technical competence nor our financial savvy nor the magnitude of our online influence that will matter in the end, but rather our character, our virtue.” At the Foot of the Cross On the last day, seminarians gathered at the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Our Lady of Peñafrancia for the closing mass, which was presided over by Most Rev. Rex Andrew C. Alarcon, D.D., the Archbishop of Caceres. In his homily, Archbishop Alarcon reflected on what it means to be a disciple, emphasizing that a disciple is one who humbly sits at the foot of the master, the one who sits at the cross. He then proposed three essential qualities for discipleship, i.e., intellectual honesty, holistic formation, and the ability to integrate faith and reason. After the mass, the seminarians gathered at the Legazpi Hall of the said Basilica for the closing program and awarding ceremonies. The Sedes Sapientiae Formation House was declared the Champion for the Short Film-Making Contest, while the Holy Rosary Major Seminary was declared the Overall Champion. The Holy Trinity College Seminary got the first runner-up award, while the Sedes Sapientiae Formation House and Mater Salutis Seminary were declared second runner-ups. BAPS is a regional organization committed to fostering intellectual development, philosophical engagement and spiritual nourishment among the seminarians of the Bicol region. It also aims to promote camaraderie, brotherhood, and collaboration among the seminarians through games and social events. Currently, Rev. Fr. Manuel Zagada serves as the Dean of the HRMS Philosophy Department, and Rev. Fr. Nunilon Arnold Bancaso, Jr., is the BAPS Moderator.

By Tere Esmeralda-Medina NAGA CITY – The Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting (PPCRV) in the Archdiocese of Caceres officially launched its mission for the upcoming 2025 Elections in a solemn liturgical celebration held at the Archbishop’s Residence last February 12, with Most Rev. Rex Andrew C. Alarcon, D.D., Archbishop of Caceres and PPCRV National Spiritual Director, as presider. The said event gathered the clergy, lay leaders and volunteers in a unified commitment to uphold clean, honest, accurate, meaningful, and peaceful (CHAMP) elections. A highlight of the said launch was the introduction of a digital volunteer recruitment initiative through a QR Code System. This initiative aims to encourage wider participation, making registration accessible through the Facebook pages of the Archdiocese of Caceres, Caritas-Caceres (Naga), Inc., various parish pages, and PPCRV promotional materials. As the accredited citizens’ arm of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) in the Archdiocese of Caceres, PPCRV remains steadfast in its mission to promote voter awareness and ensure credible elections through transparency and community participation. The upcoming activities of PPCRV Caceres are as follows: PPCRV Vicarial Orientations on March 22, March 29 and April 5; Parish Orientations from March 22-April 6; and Candidates’ Forum on April 23 for Mayoral and Gubernatorial Candidates, April 25 for Congressional Candidates of Districts 1-3, and April 28 for Congressional Candidates of Districts 4-5. The launch was also attended by representatives of the Caceres PPCRV Core Team led by Rev. Fr. Marcel Emmanuel DP. Real, Archdiocesan PPCRV Coordinator; Rev. Fr. Erwin B. Bismonte, Assistant Director of Caritas Caceres; Elmer Sto. Domingo, Executive Director of the Caceres Commission on Communications Development (CCD); and Edna S. Tejada, PPCRV Lay Coordinator. Other members include Maria Theresa Avenido-Arbo, Ellen S. Pena, PPCRV facilitators and counselors, Cherry S. Kimson and Theresa E. Medina along with over 60 PPCRV volunteers. The Holy Rosary Minor Seminary Community was also present during the said occasion.

By Julma M. Narvadez “It’s about time.” This was the resounding sentiment of the participants during the SKK Day on February 8, at the Alberto Hall, Basilica Complex in Naga City. SKK or Saradit na Kristyanong Komunidad is the local term for Basic Ecclesial Communities (BECs). Attended by vicars forane, vicarial clergy, seminary rectors, and lay coordinators, the gathering paved the way for a communal discernment on SKKs/BECs. With forty-seven participants, the 15 Vicariates of the Archdiocese were all represented. Responding to the Call for Synodality In a circular, Caceres Archbishop Rex Andrew C. Alarcon, D.D., decreed that SKK Day would be held in honor of St. Peter Baptist, Archdiocesan Titular Patron, whose feast was celebrated on February 9. “St. Peter Baptist was a builder of Christian communities here in Bikol. It is then fitting that as we gather for the annual SKK Day, we look at the example of St. Peter Baptist who reached out to our Bikolano forefathers and listened to them, as he proclaimed the Gospel,” the Archbishop explained. The Archbishop, in a video message, expressed his hope that the vicarial representatives would better appreciate “the beauty of the Church as the people of God” and “to encounter Christ through one another.” This year’s SKK Day was designed to be an opportunity for a spiritual conversation on the significance of BECs in Caceres, as the local Church responds to the call for synodality. Rooted in Liberation Theology Fr. Eugune A. Lubigan, newly installed rector of the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Penafrancia, welcomed the participants while Fr. Wilfred V. Almoneda, Vicar General, delivered the opening remarks. Fr. Wimer S. Tria, head of Caceres’ Education Ministry Cluster, presented the history of BEC. He said BECs find its roots in the liberation theology that originated in Latin America. Fr. Tria, Parish Priest of St. Raphael, the Archangel Parish in Pili, also shared his experiences with SKK. “The Gospel of Jesus is about the liberation of humanity from past sins, from economic woes, towards God’s Kingdom. BEC is a vehicle so we can attain that liberation,” he added. Challenges in building SKKs During the spiritual conversation, the participants shared the fruits of their reflection on whether or not forming SKKs was urgent. Among the concerns raised was the lack of material and human resources. The large number of barangays was another factor that hindered parishes from organizing SKKs. Some parishes have jurisdiction over as many as 14 barangays. Nevertheless, despite these challenges, the participants saw the urgency of forming SKKs. Fr. Mario Arnulfo Gaite, Vicar Forane of St. Anthony of Padua Vicariate, assured his fellow priests that forming SKKs was not a complete departure from their usual duties. He encouraged them to collaborate with parishioners who could lead SKKs. St. Anthony of Padua Vicariate is composed of 5 parishes in Iriga City and one parish in San Miguel, Bato. Lay participants also expressed their commitment to form SKKs in their barangays. They noted, however, that many parishioners preferred the company of their priests while the community was in the initial stages of organizing SKKs. In his homily during the Mass that capped the activity, Fr. Almoneda reminded the participants that Jesus began his ministry with the help of only 12 men. He said there was no reason to be fazed about the seemingly enormous task of establishing SKKs because the Universal Church started through the dedication of a handful of disciples. In Caceres, the Office of BECs is headed by Fr. Emmanuel G. Mojica, Parish Priest of St. Anthony of Padua in Camaligan.

By Karen Serrano & Shiela Mae Hade On February 9, 2025, the Archdiocese of Caceres, through the Caceres Office for Women and Children Protection (COWCP) marked a significant milestone by hosting the First Parish Safeguarding Summit, themed “Rallying Troops: Building a Culture of Trust and Protection in Our Communities.” The event, held at the Minor Basilica and Shrine of Our Lady of Peñafrancia, Naga City, saw active participation from 47 parishes with 245 participants underscoring the Church’s commitment to safeguarding its members. Throughout the day, participants engaged in workshops and discussions aimed at identifying prevalent social concerns within their parishes. Through the guidance of Prof. Gloria San Antonio, these sessions facilitated the sharing of best practices and the candid acknowledgment of areas needing improvement in safeguarding efforts. The collaborative environment allowed parish representatives to propose tailored policies and action plans, ensuring that safeguarding measures are both effective and contextually relevant. A highlight of the summit was the formal establishment of 45 Parish Protection Desks. These desks are envisioned to serve as dedicated units within each parish, focusing on the protection of children, women, and vulnerable individuals. Their roles encompass: Raising Awareness: Conducting educational programs to inform parishioners about safeguarding issues and preventive measures. Reporting Mechanisms: Establishing clear and accessible channels for reporting concerns or incidents related to abuse or neglect. Support Services: Providing immediate assistance and referrals to professional services for affected individuals. Policy Implementation: Ensuring that diocesan safeguarding policies are effectively enacted within the parish context. Insightful Talks and Engaging Discussions The summit featured a series of plenary sessions and workshops aimed at equipping parishes with the tools and knowledge to implement effective safeguarding measures. “Parish Protection Desk and the Safeguarding Initiatives in Parishes” – Rev. Fr. Jhonan’z Vibar, Chairperson of the Caceres Office for Women and Children Protection (COWCP), outlined the role of Parish Protection Desks in preventing and responding to safeguarding concerns. He emphasized that these desks will serve as frontline responders, ensuring that every parish adopts safeguarding policies tailored to their communities. “Parenting in Homes Today” – Dr. Antonieta A. Rodriguez, faculty member of Ateneo de Naga University Graduate School, provided an insightful discussion on modern parenting challenges. She underscored the critical role of families in building a culture of protection, reminding participants that safeguarding begins at home. “Safe Spaces Act: Bawal Bastos Law” – Atty. Maria Jela Moran, LPT, founder of Know Your Rights Philippines, delivered a compelling session on gender-based violence and the legal protections provided under the Safe Spaces Act. She urged Church leaders to create safe environments not only in parishes but in all community spaces. “VAWC Incident Referral System” – PSMS Daisyris V. Tapan, PNCO in-charge of the Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD) in Naga City, walked participants through the legal protocols and support mechanisms for victims of violence against women and children (VAWC). She provided practical steps for parishes to take in handling such cases with sensitivity and efficiency. “Crash Course on Cybercrime” – PSMS Lea Rivera, WCPD PNCO Investigator , shed light on the dangers of online abuse, cyberbullying, and digital exploitation. She highlighted recent love scam and hacking incidents in Camarines Sur, warning communities about the increasing number of online fraud cases targeting individuals through social media and digital platforms. She encouraged parishes to educate their communities about responsible internet use, digital safeguarding, and ways to report cybercrime incidents effectively. Each session was followed by breakout workshops where participants reflected on the key concerns affecting their parishes and formulated action plans. The outputs of these workshops will be submitted to the Office for Safe Environment for further study and implementation. A Continuing Mission The Archdiocese plans to make the Parish Safeguarding Summit an annual event, continually reinforcing its dedication for protection and trust within its communities. This is just the beginning. Our journey towards building a culture of safeguarding is ongoing, and with collective effort, we can create parishes where everyone feels safe and valued. For more information on the Archdiocese’s safeguarding initiatives or to get involved, parishioners are encouraged to visit the Caceres Office for Women and Children Protection (COWCP) page at https://www.facebook.com/cowcp2014. The success of this summit reflects the Archdiocese of Caceres’ unwavering commitment to fostering communities rooted in trust, protection, and the compassionate teachings of the Church.

By Natalie Hazel Quimlat, MD NAGA CITY --- Carmelite prelate and Caceres Archbishop Emeritus Rolando Tria Tirona marked his 30th year as a Bishop last December 29, Feast of the Holy Family. In his homily, during the eucharistic celebration offered for the said milestone at the Naga Metropolitan Cathedral, the Carmelite prelate emphasized the importance given by the Catholic Church to the family. Love is the center of every family Tria Tirona drew attention to the value of being together as a family, saying that “there are families today that encounter division due to work or pressure”. “There is absence of spiritual life within the family,” he said, highlighting the importance of renewing and fostering the spiritual life of the family. According to the Carmelite prelate, this can be done by making the Holy Family one’s model family. “What can we see in the life of the Holy Family?” he asked. First, “a deep and profound faith in God”. “The [Holy Family’s] faith is seen through their prayer life,” Tria Tirona said. He further advocated the need for prayer to be part of every family’s life. “The family that prays together, stays together.” Second is through the obedience to the will of God. “Jesus, Mary and Joseph all experienced difficulties in life, but these did not prevent them from obeying the will of God,” he said. “God wants our obedience as a family.” Third is by serving according to the mission God gives each member of the family. Tria Tirona added that “Mary served as the mother of our Lord, Joseph served as the protector and father of the Holy Family, and Jesus served His parents by being respectful towards them and by doing the will of God”. In closing the Carmelite prelate exhorted, “Our families must learn to serve other families.” Many families today are “inward looking”, Tria Tirona said. “We must be ready to help, support and pray for families [that are in need]. Let our families be a family of faith, hope and charity; a family of obedience; and a family of generous service to others.” “In the end,” the Carmelite prelate said, “it is important to show love within the family. Love is the center of every family.” We belong to Christ Tria Tirona was appointed as the 34th Bishop and 4th Archbishop of Caceres on September 8, 2012. His first impressions of the Archdiocese remain as thus: the warm reception of the people and the “tremendous outpouring of the faith and love of the lay faithful for the Blessed Virgin Mary” -these he also witnessed as he made pastoral visits. Thus, the Carmelite prelate’s fondest memories of serving Caceres include the many “gatherings to venerate Ina, Our Lady of Peñafrancia, and [celebrating] fiesta masses in the rural areas of the Archdiocese”. Prior to his installation in Caceres, Tria Tirona reminded the lay faithful, “This is not a celebration for myself but a celebration for the community. My episcopal motto is Christi Sumus (We belong to Christ). On the day of my installation, I would like to rekindle and renew in us the sense of belonging to Christ. Nais ko lang muling buhayin sa atin na tayong lahat ay katawan ni Kristo.” As he stepped down from office early in 2024, Tria Tirona urged the lay faithful of Caceres to “keep and deepen the devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary”. “Maintain [your] warm hospitality and graciousness,” the Archbishop Emeritus said. 30 years a Bishop, 50 years a priest Tria Tirona also celebrated his Golden Sacerdotal Anniversary last April 21. He entered the Order of Discalced Carmelites in 1964 and was ordained a priest 10 years later. He became a Bishop in 1994, with his first assignment as an Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Manila. In 1996, he was designated as the Bishop of the Diocese of Malolos. Prior to his appointment in Caceres, he served the Prelature of Infanta as their Bishop.

Photo courtesy of The Naga Metropolitan Cathedral. As Christmastime was approaching, we have been experiencing continuous rains, some landslides, worsening road situation, kilometric traffic, long hours of travel, rising prices of commodities. These are beside the fact that we are still trying to recover from recent calamities. If we simply focus our attention to the external circumstances and the material trappings of Christmas, we will say, there is no Christmas. In this case, Christmas has been synonymous with simply material blessings. But there is something greater than the gifts, decorations and carols. Let us look harder. There is a light that shines on Christmas. Jesus comes into our midst when we are in the dark; when we seem to drown in our vices, when we are overcome by evil; in the midst of confusion or in the brink of despair; when we are about to give up – Jesus comes to save us, to help us rise anew, to recover, to move on, to be new once again. I invite you, dear brothers and sisters, to turn inside, into our hearts; into our homes and communities. Let Jesus our Savior be born anew in our hearts, in our families and communities – in our relationships. Let us rediscover the gift of persons. And, I also invite you to go out. Let us give love these days of Christmas. We can offer a consoling presence, a listening ear, a kind gesture, a sincere wish, a wholehearted service, patient accompaniment, generous availability, wholehearted sharing of goods, a joyful Christmas Carol, brotherly visit, a friendly call, a welcoming embrace, a compassionate gesture, a selfless act. When we strive to do these and welcome Jesus in our hearts, surely, our Christmas, will be bright! I pray that this Christmas, we may experience the love of God made concrete in Jesus, the Emmanuel. May your holy days and holidays be blessed! Merry Christmas!

Transcript of the Message of His Grace, Most Rev. Rex Andrew C. Alarcon, DD, Archbishop of Caceres and Chairman of the CBCP Episcopal Commission on Youth on the local celebration of the National Youth Day on 16 December 2024. Dear young people of the Philippines: (This is) Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon of the CBCP Episcopal Commission on Youth and the Archdiocese of Caceres. Over the past few months, the Archdiocese of Caceres, parts of Bicol and other parts of the country were hit by typhoon and flooding. Many lives were lost, people were homeless, fear enveloped our lives. Despite these challenges, faith made us hopeful for a new day and new beginning. Our Lady, our Ina, has proven to us her maternal intercession. Fear and tiredness were replaced with hope as we are reminded that we are always under her mantle of love. This is the hope that we want to joyfully share with you, our dear young people, the faith of Bicolanos, and (our) their devotion. I am happy to invite you to the Pilgrim City of Naga, Bicol Region, to the National Youth Day Caceres 2025, from June 10 to 14. So that, we, as pilgrims of hope, will share our stories of hope, our experiences of Christ in our lives. And together, celebrate our communion as Church under the maternal love of our Blessed Mother, Our Lady of Peñafrancia. Together, let us rejoice in hope, endure affliction, and persevere in prayer. God bless you all! See you here in Naga!

By Pamela F. Tria Investiture inaugural president of Colegio de San Rafael Arcangel inaugural president. From left, Fr. Eugene Lubigan, Eddie Crescini, CSRA Trustees; Archbishop Emeritus Rolando J. Tria Tirona, OCD, DD; Fr. Wilmer Joseph S. Tria, CSRA President; Caceres Archbishop Rex Andrew C. Alarcon, D.D.; Fr. Enrico Julian Paglinawan, VP for Academics; Trustees Frs. Domingo Florida and Dario Echipare. (Photo courtesy of CSRA) Pili, Camarines Sur – On December 14, one of the most anticipated events in the school calendar was held, as the Investiture Ceremony took place for Fr. Wilmer Joseph S. Tria to be formally installed as the inaugural president of Colegio de San Rafael Arcangel (CSRA) becoming a further highlight to the school’s recognition as the first archdiocesan college of Caceres. It became a grand Saturday afternoon introduction to the Archdiocese of Caceres, as the event started with a motorcade, roaming the streets of the town of Pili which featured several floats from student departments. After the motorcade, the students then gathered at the patio to witness the arrival of Caceres Archbishop Rex Andrew C. Alarcon, D.D. At 3.30 in the afternoon, the Eucharistic Celebration started, followed by the Investiture Ceremony held at St. Raphael the Archangel Parish Church. Archbishop Alarcon was the main celebrant and officiating prelate. Hosted by Fr. Jene Lois Sarmiento, parochial vicar, the investiture ceremony began with the reading of the board resolution by Fr. Domingo Florida, CSRA Corporate Secretary. Fr. Wilfred Almoneda, Vicar General of Caceres, read the letter of appointment. Then, Eddie Crescine, a member of the Board of Trustees, read the missioning statement. Thereafter, Fr. Tria recited the oaths of office and of fidelity. Aside from Fr. Florida and Crescine, the Trustees are Fr. Dario Echipare, School Director of Naga Parochial School and Fr. Eugene Lubigan, Rector of the Peñafrancia Basilica Minore. Most Rev. Alarcon is the Chairman of the Board. Dr. Rebecca Torres Director of Formation, led the symbolic imposition of the presidential medallion while Bonifacio Borebor, Vice President for Finance and Administration handed over the college mace to Fr. Tria. Fr. Enrico Julian Paglinawan, former school principal of Pili Parochial School (PPS) is now CSRA Vice President for Academics. Dr. Jean Cardiño, Chief Administrative Officer of CHED and Atty. Floranie P. Jacob delivered salutary messages. Fr. Echipare read the message of Fr. Albert Delvo, President, Manila Ecclesiastical Parochial School Systems Association. Fr. Karel San Juan, SJ, President of College Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) and PEAC President Rhodora Ferrer sent video messages. Fr. Tria delivered his inaugural address before the event concluded with the CSRA School Hymn. In his address, he thanked the parish community for their support to PPS, and now, CSRA. He said Engr. Merly Jean Plaza, Parish Pastoral Coordinator, and Purita Imperial Ombao, Finance Council Head, gave priority to the school over other parish needs, in recognition of PPS’ role in Catholic education. He explained the school’s vision of Transformational, Inclusive and Developmental Education. Currently, the college offers Bachelor in Special Needs Education. He said next academic year, another course on Early Childhood Education, will be opened. He also thanked the numerous sponsors who continuously shared their resources that kept the school afloat to eventually evolve as a College. Fr. Tria was assigned PPS School Director in 2019 during the episcopacy of Archbishop Emeritus Most Rev. Rolando J. Tria Tirona, OCD, DD who approved that PPS should become a college. The prelate also selected the name Colegio de San Rafael Archangel in honor of the parish’ patron saint.

By Ma. Asuncion P. Quimlat, MD NAGA CITY --- Last December 8, the Immaculate Conception Parish (ICP) celebrated its 60th Founding Anniversary by giving honor and tribute to the Blessed Virgin Mary. In preparation for the said Feast, the nine days prior were days of prayer, reflection and service. From November 29 to December 7, the Parish held the novena masses at 5:30 in the afternoon. To instruct the faithful, three Bishops, two previous Parish Priests and invited clergy as main celebrant and preacher shared their reflections on the titles and virtues of Mary. 9 Days of Community Work During this time, medical services were offered to the different sectors of the Parish and social responsibility activities were held at community level. The communities of San Pascual, San Vicente Ferrer and St. Clare have a special place in the hearts of the members of the Ladies of Charity. On the first day, they offered free medical consultation to the residents of the three aforementioned sitios or Saradit na Kristiyanong Komunidad (SKKs). The event was held at the Health Department of the Unibersidad de Sta Isabel. 300 parishioners were seen. The second day, parishioners with the Lay Eucharistic Ministers as the lead organization planted 250 new trees in Iwid, Zone 6, Balatas. Barangays Balatas and Concepcion Pequeña assisted in the said activity. The third day was allotted for a Clean-Up Drive sponsored by the Cofradia de San Jose and Siervas de Maria. The Lectors Guild sponsored a Free Dental and Optical Consultation on the fourth day. Theare were 54 recipients for the Optical Consult and 40 recipients for the Dental Clinic. 6 Optometrists and 2 Dentists graciously treated the 93 patients. With the participation of the Philippine Red Cross Naga Chapter, The ICP Parish Renewal Experience (PREX) organized a Blood Letting activity on the fifth day. Among 37 donors, 26 bags of blood were donated. The sixth day coincided with the first Wednesday of the month. Being a Wednesday, the weekly serving of free lunch was organized by the 3 Ps Ministry. Aside from feeding, catechesis and raffle were also done. There were 123 recipients. The activity was sponsored by the Office of the City Prosecutor. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and the St Martha’s Ministry sponsored an Orientation Seminar on the seventh day regarding Livelihood Programs with free haircuts, manicure and pedicure. 29 participants attended the said seminar. 25 Persons with Special Needs gathered at the Aula Magna of the Parish on the eighth day. Among them were students from the Joseph Gualandi School for the Hearing Impaired. They were accompanied by Sr. Nora Patlonag. Participants presented song and dance numbers for the Gilean Got Talent, organized by the Parish Gilean Ministry. The last day was dedicated for children organized by the Parish Catechetical Ministry. Pediatric consultation was done. Children were treated to games, raffles and giveaways.

Transcript of the Homily of His Grace, Most Rev. Rex Andrew C. Alarcon, DD, Archbishop of Cáceres, during the Ordination to the Sacred Order of Presbyters of Rev. Fr. Michael Angelo C. Escriba, and to the Sacred Order of Deacons of Rev. Joseph B. Bascuña and Rev. Leoneil Arce B. Belen on Saturday, 14 December 2024 at the Our Lady of Peñafrancia Minor Basilica and National Shrine, Pilgrim City of Naga. Most Rev. Rolando Tria Tirona, our Archbishop-Emeritus; Most Rev. Manolo Delos Santos, the Bishop-Emeritus of Virac; the parents and the family of our ordinandi; brother Priests; consecrated men and women, friends; benefactors; relatives of these, our brothers; seminarians; dear brothers and sisters:   Today, we are happy as we shall witness the ordination of these our brothers – Rev. Michael, Bro, Joseph, and Bro. LA. However, it is quite bitter-sweet, because yesterday we just buried one of our brother Priests. Bittersweet because we used to have eight (8) ordinations in the past, per year, and this Basilica would be full. But now we have only one (1) to be ordained Priest, and two (2) to the Deaconry. This situation is not only here in Cáceres. We are experiencing a dearth of vocations globally, nationally. That’s why it’s bittersweet. But certainly, we are very happy because these – your sons, brother, your friend – are about to be ordained.    In our time, we have been speaking about the future of work. And with the current advancements in technology and science, there are those who are afraid of work – you know that routine and repetitive works are now replaced by machines because of automation. You’ve seen that in the airports or even in the banks, the tellers or those who entertain have you know they’re numbers have decreased because we now have kiosks. Telemarketers, analysts – they are being replaced by machines. And so, if we are having a dearth of vocations, baka mas marhay kun mga robot na sana ano, robot na sana an mga Padi saka mga Diacono ta, asin garo kita si Elon Musk ‘no, he launched his optimus robot. Launching an apod bakong ordination ‘no. Ngonian ordination.     They were supposed to be initially ordained last June, but because of the announcement, the Archbishop[-Emeritus] deemed that they wait for me. So that when I came, I told them, “Brothers, you have to be patient. Hindi ko pa kayo kilala. Kaipohan bistohon ko pa kamo . You have to wait a little bit.” If you were robots, you just have to take your technical configurations, and if your systems are okay then we can say “go”. But yours’ is no technical configuration, yours’ is configuration to the Lord Jesus. A robot is made, maybe inside a garage, or in a span of weeks. But it took you years to reach this stage. There was the propaedeutic stage, the discipleship stage when you are philosophers, and the configuration stage, the theology – years of study of theology, and the vocation synthesis stage. And here you are, about to be ordained as deacons, and as Priest.   It takes a village. As we say, “it takes a village to raise a child”. It takes a village, the whole church, to prepare somebody for the deaconate and the priesthood. Bakò sanang spare parts ang kaipohan ta, bakò sanang kun anong data set ang kaipohan ta.  You have had years of experience living with your family, being in the Parish, learning in the seminary, connecting with people, building relationships with people, so that in due time you will be sent for the mission that is being entrusted to you. Today marks a milestone on your journey, and we are grateful to the Lord.   Three things which I wish to remind you, dear brothers, as you are about to receive the deaconate and the priesthood:   (1)   Do not forget, it is God who called you, and it is God who sends you. You are about to receive some authority and power. Take note, this comes from God. This comes from God through the church. This is not a reward for you. This is not something that you merit; it is something that is gratuitously given to you. And thus, do not forget this – without God, you are nothing. Without the church, you have no authority. Sometimes we forget this. Naordinahan na, ang paghunâ ta satuya ang autoridad. Bakò. Hale sa Mahal na Diós, sa paagi kan Simbahan. Kayà dai kita basta-basta nagboboót. Igwa nin nagboboót para satô. Asin an boót niato, an kabôtan nin mahal na Diós. There is always a temptation to think that we are entitled to it, but it is given to us gratuitously. And because this power and authority comes from God, we deal with the mysteries of God. We proclaim the message of God through our words, through human gestures and words, through human actions. But thus, do not forget God. Always commune with God who called you and who sends you. That’s the first. The second, well going back to the first, therefore habang ang mundo ngonian nagtatalas an isip  ‘no – intelligence – iyo baga nagiging  more intelligent na  – augmented intelligence, artificial intelligence. Man is becoming more intelligent, augmenting his intelligence, certainly continue to learn. But to approach God is not only with the mind, but with the heart. Kayà magrarom an pagpamibi, magrarom an pagpamibi .  Maging master sa pag-contemplate, contemplation.   We must continue to master. Master contemplation. Silence, communing with God. While there is an explosion of information; intelligence explosion, we are the people who walk about, preach mastery of contemplation – that is communion with God. Do not forget this. So, kayà sana dai mawarà an panahon sa pagpamibi, asin an lambang pagcelebrar kan mga sacramento tunay na pamibi. Bakò sanang mechanical . Maski bakò kitang mga makina, pero paminsan nagigin garo makina an satuyang pag-operate. And dear brothers and sisters, that also happens at home. Iyo po baga, kun mayo na kita nin contemplative spirit,  pati an pagsirbi ta sa harong nagigin mechanical . An paglaog sa trabaho, mechanical . An pagtabang sa kapwa, nagiging mechanical . Dai nagkokonek puso sa puso. Kayà sa Ordinacion po na ini, pinapagiromdom kita na dai mawarà an aspetong ini kan satuyang pagkabuhay asin satuyang pagtubod. Kayà tama na nagtitiripon kita sa pagpamibi, nagtitiripon kita sa pagkarakan, nagheheras kita kan satuyang mga pangitorogan; kan satuyang mga kamâwotan; pati man kan satuyang mga kulog sa puso o kulog sa boót. Huli sa paagi kaini nagigiromdoman ta an kakayahan na maghorop-horop o  contemplate, to commune with God and with one another. Ika-duwa , the second, brothers and sisters – Do not forget that you are being sent to and for the community. The ministry, the authority, and the power that is given to you is not for you. It’s certainly for you as well, but it is for the community.  Kaya  Rev. Mike, from Deacon to the Priesthood – one rank higher. From a Seminarian to deacon – one rank higher. Always remember, when we are, so to speak, promoted to one rank higher – it is not really promotion in the sense, as we say that we merited it. Igwa man arog kayan. But it is one rank higher in service. It is not so much a reward.  Kun minsan, kaitong naordinahan ako, may nagsabi sako “ay deserve mo ‘yan, reward ‘yan saimo.” No , let us resist this temptation. It is not a reward, rather it is an obligation. It is mission. Bakong premio kundi mision para sa comunidad.    When you consider the promotion as a reward, what happens? Sometimes, you may not take it seriously because it is not for the community. You may take it lightly because it’s simply for you. But if you view from the optic that this is not for me, bako ini para sakò , then we become more serious in fulfilling our obligations. We become more sincere in performing our duties and functions, because the ministry to serve is not really for us. And so, thank God for this gift because you are being entrusted with such responsibility. And now that you are sent for the community, you are called to be companions. Companions of people. The capacity to celebrate with people. The celebration of the sacrament is to be joyful; to share in the joy of our brothers and sisters; to share in the pain and the burden of our brothers and sisters. In the celebration of the sacraments, these are very important moments in the life of our people. And it is to be with them, to walk with them, to embrace their pain, and to carry their cross as well. So, it is not simply the mastery of the Rites, but it is the capacity to walk, to walk with our brothers and sisters in their life as a family, in their life as a community. And that is the reason why the Rites are there – because those are the moments when we accompany our people, our community, our faithful in very important moments of their lives. But as human companions, realize your imperfection, our imperfection. As there is this human quest for perfection, realize, see that we will always have our imperfections. That is why, as we accompany our people, what was mention in today’s Gospel – that we become ministers of God’s mercy and forgiveness. Ministers of God’s mercy and forgiveness. We will, there will be moments that we will feel our weakness, then we will have to stand up again, relying on the mercy of God. We will also accompany our people so that they will experience the mercy of God. Thus, you are being sent to the community, be sensitive – be sensitive to the people; to their needs. Be sensitive.  You know, we are expanding our sensors, ‘di ba?   Nag eexpand ang sensors ta kayà an mata ta nag eexpand kayà may mga camera na kita. Ang mga auto ta may mga sensors na. The paradox is,  nagrarayo an naaabot kan satuyang mga sensors, pero si harani sa satô, pagtaraid ta, dai ta nasesense si mga pangangaipo kan mga kairibahan ta sa laog kan harong. Powerful  na an mga tools ta. Nahihiling ta na an laog kan hawak ta, etc., pero itong sensitivity to the heart is something that we still are you know  harayo pa . Dear brothers, dear brothers, continue to develop the sensitivity for other people. The sensitivity that is in the heart, where sincerity and truth is found.   And the third, you will also be servant leaders. And as servant leaders, certainly you must be knowledgeable. But as servant leaders, grow in self-giving today. Today, you will receive some power and authority. But you are not only receiving, you are also giving yourself. Giving yourself. And when you give yourself, what do you say? Lord, I am at your disposition. I am at your disposition. Lord, tell me what to do, tell me where to go. I am at your disposition. That is a servant. And this is… When we do this, this is LOVE. Love. As servant leaders, we are to lead in love. We must be knowledgeable; we must be capable; but we are to lead in love. And what is love? Happiness in serving. We are happier in serving, than in being served. Because this is the example of Jesus – “I have come not to be served, but to serve…” Servant leader, servant leader. We have often used the image of the captain of the ship – naglulubog na an barko, an huring malukso an Kapitan. An eroplano, an piloto dapat magpahuri. Ini an image  na pirmi tang gigiromdomon; ini ang image kan  Good Shepherd. The Good Shepherd, sabi niya,  “I am not a hired hand, bako akong bayaran . Kayà kun may mga lobong maabot , if there are wolves – dai madulag . And I am willing to offer my life to others.” This is the servant leadership. This is the kind of a leadership, the leadership of a good shepherd. And this is not very easy. Dai ta ini kakayanon kun kulang an satong pagtubod sa Mahal na Diós. Dai ta ini kakayanon kun kulang an satong pagkamoot sa Mahal na Diós asin pagkamoot sa kapwa.  We can only be capable of total self-giving if we are in love with God and if we are in love with our people. But if our only love is the self, ang unang ililigtas ta ang sadiri ta . That is not the example of Jesus. That is not the example of Jesus. And this is not very easy, that is why we ask for God’s grace. It is grace that you will receive, and this grace will be for you and for our people.   So these are the three (3) things that I remind you of. Be assured of our prayers as we thank your family, your relatives, the benefactors, the seminary formators, all those who have accompanied you and assisted you in your formation. I beg you to continue to pray for them, and to assist them, as we ask the Lord to continue to bless them.   Dear brothers, you will minister in love. In love. Today is the Feast Day of St. John of the Cross. Was it St. John of the Cross who said “In the evening of your lives, you will be examined in love.” In the evening of our lives, we will be examined in love. You certainly are not robots, you are human beings. You have been raised in love, called by God in love, and now being sent to the people, by the church, to the community, in love. Today, savor that love that God has for you, in choosing you, in electing you. And bring the same love to the people who will be entrusted to you.    Our congratulations and prayers for you!   A round of applause, for these, our brothers.

By Myrna Bermudo Photo: Caceres Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon delivering his homily at the Parish of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, Quipayo, Calabanga, Camarines Sur on December 8. On his right is Fr. Charlie Audal, parish priest.(Screenshot /Archdiocese of Caceres Facebook Page) “Do not allow yourself to be robbed of [the] simple things in life, more  burloloys  and more gadgets might bring you a dissipated spirit,” warned Archbishop Alarcon. “It’s not so much material preparation; let us not forget also the spiritual preparation progress. The reality is we cannot bring material things when we pass away. What we can bring is what we have given away. In the end, what will bring you happiness are the moments when you have given and shared what you have. True riches are the things you gave and shared.”  Caceres Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon offered these pointers during his homily on December 8 at the Parish of the Immaculate Conception in Quipayo, Calabanga.     Prepare the way for the Lord The prelate mentioned that “Christmas preparations are sometimes focused on the externals. We are reminded not to forget the more essential things in life. This is the time to stop, a time to reflect because in the midst of busyness, we might be – out of focus and have a dissipated spirit. Prepare the way of the Lord- this is the message of St. John the Baptist on this second Sunday of Advent,” he continued.   Speaking on the importance of the feast of the Virgin Mary, he said that the Immaculate Conception is the grace given by God to Mary to prepare her to be the Mother of God. “When she was conceived, she had no stain of sin. For us, we experience the consequences of original sin. In baptism, this is washed away but we still experience the effects of sin. Thus, we need to be aware of the enticement of material things and progress which leads us to be more materialistic, more tech-savvy, prone to anger, and no longer capable of being sensitive to the needs of others. Your life has been robbed of [its simplicity]. You find yourself having more gadgets and multi-tasking but [without] focus. You have more social media friends but no real friends.” “The message of St. John the Baptist and Mary, the Immaculate, is for us to prepare the way of the Lord. This is our challenge -to prepare our hearts, cleanse our hearts, minds and souls. Even if we don’t have Christmas decorations, [what is important is our] internal preparation, [which] is the better preparation. Let us prepare our hearts where Christ will be born anew, Christ, our hope. He is the assurance that God does not abandon us,” said Alarcon.   “[Again], let us not forget the spiritual progress. True happiness and riches are the things you gave and shared,” the Archbishop emphasized.     History and identity Archbishop Alarcon greeted the parish priest, Fr. Charlie Audal, the parish pastoral council, the barangay pastoral council, members of the religious organizations, parish ministries and the young people on the occasion of their parish fiesta. He extoled the brick church of the Quipayo parish saying that it is one of the most beautiful churches in the Archdiocese of Caceres. It is also one the first parishes of Caceres founded in 1578 together with the churches in Nabua, Bula and Naga City. He challenged the parish community to preserve the church because with the structure comes the history of the Christian community.  “History is very important because it gives us our identity,” explained Alarcon, who is a church historian.

In a pastoral letter read throughout the Archdiocese last December 1, the 1st Sunday of Advent, Caceres Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon announced the Archdiocesan Pastoral Thrust for the Jubilee Year 2025, themed "Pilgrims of Hope", and enumerated the goals of the Archdiocese for the said year.   The Archdiocesan Pastoral Thrust for the coming year is " Education towards Communion " (" Magsabot pasiring sa Simbahan na nakikisumaro "). This was inspired by the recently concluded Annual Clergy Retreat, wherein Alarcon and the Caceres Clergy revisited the objectives of the 2nd Plenary Council of the Philippines (PCP II), and the 1st and 2nd Archdiocesan Pastoral Councils of Caceres (APCC I and II). In all of these Councils, the Church hoped to be a Community of Disciples and a Church of the Poor. In addition, Alarcon mentioned in his letter that these objectives were to be met by creating Basic Ecclesial Communities (BECs) as discussed in the Congress of the Laity.   However, the Caceres prelate also said that these objectives are still far from completion. Hence, a renewed commitment to achieve these objectives through education and formation in the year 2025. The prelate also hopes that after a year of journeying together, the following will have been met: 1) a deeper understanding of the nature and mission of the Church by the priests, religious and the lay, 2) lay empowerment through the process of being a synodal Church, 3) increased participation of the Vicariates and Commissions of the Archdiocese in strengthening the Church as one community, 4) increased participation of the numerous religious organizations and associations in the life of their respective Parishes and the Archdiocese at large, and 5) to support the current BECs of the Archdiocese and eventually, make a model BEC for the Archdiocese.    Prior to his transfer to Caceres, Alarcon mentioned in an interview that one of his goals as a prelate is to increase lay participation in the Archdiocese.    It was in May 2024 that Pope Francis announced 2025 to be a Jubilee Year, which will formally open on December 29. The Holy Father wrote in his Bull of Indiction, "For everyone, may the Jubilee be a moment of genuine, personal encounter with the Lord Jesus, the "door" (cf.  Jn  10:7.9) of our salvation, whom the Church is charged to proclaim always, everywhere and to all as "our hope" (1  Tim  1:1)." -Natalie Hazel P. Quimlat, MD (photo: Archbishop Alarcon with some priests in Caceres during the retreat when the thrust of Caceres was commonly dircerned.)