Includes Counseling Ministry for the Youth and Married Couples By Natalie Hazel Quimlat In a press conference held for the closing of their Golden Jubilee as a Diocese, Virac unveiled its 3-year Pastoral Plan moving forward, focusing on the threefold ministry of Christ: prophetic, priestly and Kingly.  Held last Monday, August 25, at the Bishop’s Residence in Fiat Village, Virac, Fr. Stephen Polo, Secretary of the Office for Pastoral Plan, walked the audience through the next 3 years. The remaining months of 2025 will be dedicated for the preparatory phase.  “The Diocese aims to journey together fostering unity, communion and mission,” he said.  In 2026, the Diocese will focus on the prophetic ministry of Christ, holding formation sessions across the Diocese, aiming for the “30% increase in [Church] participation”.  In 2027, the focus will be on the priestly mission of Christ, on communion and the establishment and nurturing of Basic Ecclesial Communities. In 2028, the Diocese will focus on the Kingly ministry of Christ, specifically on mission and stewardship. “The Mission is inspired by John 10:10,” Polo explained. “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”  In addition, Fr. Paul Isorena enumerated the new specialized offices created in the Diocese. For the Youth Apostolate, these include a Counseling Ministry, a Committee on Youth Pastoral Forum and an Office for Youth Media Ministry, to name a few.  For the Cluster for Family and Life, these are Offices for Marriage Counseling and Marriage Encounter.  In addition, the Diocese also established Offices for Grandparents and for the LGBTQIA+ community. In his message, Virac Bishop Luisito Occiano expressed gratitude for the rich faith the Diocese has been blessed with. “We are blessed with 50 fruitful years,” he said, naming “Church luminaries” who hail from the Diocese of Virac and highlighting the origins of the Youth Encounter program that the Diocese is known for.  In closing, he said, “I ask for your prayers as we journey as one Church of God.” Occiano serves as the 3rd Bishop of Virac. He was preceded by Bishop Emeritus Manolo de los Santos, who led the Diocese for almost 3 decades.  It was in August 1974 that the Diocese of Virac was canonically established, separated from the Diocese of Legazpi, with then Bishop Jose Sorra as its first prelate.

By Fidela Malaluan The 17th Himuloan Festival is a program of the Parish of St. Bernard Abbot. It is conducted every 18th day of August. It aims to strengthen and manifest the generosity of Ocampoanons to our least fortunate brothers and sisters by sharing the fruits of the land and part of their labor. They gather their himulo, offerings, and arrange them decoratively and artistically in a cart, padyak or any vehicle to serve as a float. Participants are also highlighted in a parade in their Filipiniana attire. The goods gathered, which are primarily agricultural products and grocery items, are given to Himuloan recipients: charitable institutions, seminaries and poor parishes. The festival was inspired by the celebration of the Corpus Christi. It is previously known as the Tinagba Festival which owes its origin to the pioneering efforts of Rev. Fr. Jaime Danilo Ll. Viola. Subsequently, it has gained positive support from the succeeding parish priests: Rev. Fr. Balbino B. Gumabao, Jr., the late Rev. Fr. Rey Caceres and Rev. Fr. Bernie Anthony V. Ramirez, respectively. Over the years, it has flourished, manifesting  aoverwhelming support not only from the people of Ocampo but also from neighboring communities.  This year, the organization of the Festival was spearheaded by the Parish Pastoral Council in collaboration with the Local Government Unit of Ocampo, 14 BPCs (Barangay Pastoral Councils), ROMMs, 25 BLGUs (Barangay Local Government Units), 20 elementary and 4 secondary schools including private schools of  the Department of Education Ocampo District, civic organizations, fraternities and sororities, alumni associations, stakeholders, and parishioners who love to share and honor our Patron Saint on his feast day through this Festival, as a gesture of thanksgiving. Hopefully, the Himuloan Festival will continue, through God’s grace, to serve as a powerful testament to the transformative power of faith and generosity which enables us to demonstrate our dedication to spreading love and kindness to those in need, embodying the values of empathy and compassion in the service of the community.

Bicol Bishops arrive at the Diocese of Virac in time for the closing of their Diocesan Golden Jubilee . The eucharistic celebration that capped off this milestone was presided over by Caceres Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon yesterday, August 27. The Diocese of Virac was established in 1974 and is now one of the suffragan Dioceses of the Archdiocese of Caceres. (Photo credit: Diocese of Virac)

By Tere Esmeralda Medina "We are incredibly excited to bring the BFGTF back to the forefront this year," said Caceres Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon at the press conference of the annual Bishop Francisco Gainza Trade Fair held last Monday, August 18, at the Atrium of Robinsons Place Naga -the venue for this year’s Trade Fair.  “This trade fair is more than just a business event,” the prelate said. “It is a celebration of Bicol's rich culture and the ingenuity of our people. It is an opportunity for our local entrepreneurs to shine and for the public to discover the unique and high-quality products our region has to offer. Most especially, it is a tribute to Ina, Our Lady of Peñafrancia, who serves as our intercessor." This year’s theme is  “Si Maria, Ina niato gabos, masasarigan sa pag-uswag” . The press conference, which was well-attended by the local media, served as the official launch of the upcoming Trade Fair, which aims to promote local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs); and boost local economy. The annual Fair features a wide range of products, mostly food and handicrafts, from across the Bicol region and other parts of the country, providing a rich platform for entrepreneurs to connect with customers and create new business opportunities. Ms. Kristina G. Daquioag, Manager of Robinsons Place Naga, emphasized the mall’s commitment to community engagement and economic development. “Robinsons Place Naga is thrilled to be the host venue for [this year’s] BFGTF. We are committed to providing a space that supports local talent and contributes to the vitality of the local economy.” Organized yearly by Caritas Caceres, the BFGTF is also supported both by the local government of Camarines Sur and of Naga City. Key partner agencies such as the Department of Agriculture, represented by Lovella P. Guarin, Chief-RAFI, and the Department of Trade and Industry Camarines Sur, represented by Ms. Julie C. Mora, also expressed their full support for the annual Trade Fair. Ms. Mora, current Division Chief, highlighted the event's role in the government's efforts to foster entrepreneurship and sustainable economic growth in the Bicol region. They also underscored the Fair’s importance in supporting local farmers and agripreneurs. Another key partner for this annual event is the Camarines Sur Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CSCCI), represented by its president, Ms. Antonia G. Badong. In her message, Ms. Badong highlighted the role of the BFGTF in promoting local business. "We believe that by providing a robust venue for trade, we can help our MSMEs not only recover but thrive,” she exhorted.

By Grace Ann Pitogo July 5, 2025 – A diverse group of participants, comprising young writers and adult professionals from various parishes, attended the Caceres News Correspondents Workshop held at Coko Café, Ateneo de Naga University. The seminar-workshop aims to equip news correspondents with the necessary journalistic skills to serve in a faith-based media platform. Fr. Francis Tordilla, Director of the Caceres Commission on Communications (CCCom), introduced Caceres News, a new initiative aimed at digitally preserving and sharing stories of faith, life, and mission through digital media platforms to promote accessibility of faith news within the Archdiocese of Caceres. Fr. Tordilla pointed out the need to reach out to the digital generation, noting that modern evangelization requires the presence in online spaces where the  faithful, especially the youth, are increasingly found.  In his opening message, Fr. Francis explained how the shift of news media now requires the use of digital communication. “You are not just volunteers. You are missionaries of media,” he told the participants as he welcomed them into their new roles. The workshop featured a session on the art and craft of news and feature writing led by Ma’am Lilette Manauis. She discussed the essential elements and techniques of writing, underscoring the importance of storytelling in the mission of evangelization. Additionally, Ms. Antonette Eduardo led a session on journalism ethics, underscoring the importance of integrity in their work, particularly in upholding confidentiality, truthfulness, and accuracy. Meanwhile, Ma’am Crisel Dionisio facilitated a session and hands-on workshop on on-the-spot interviews, a skill crucial for asking the right questions to elicit clear and objective responses. With the Archdiocese’s increasing engagement in digital platforms, one participant shared, “Using media as a way of sharing our faith is what we need in these current times.” Through these sessions, young correspondents are empowered to evangelize effectively while remaining grounded in the principles of ethical journalism. The workshop concluded with the recitation of the Oath of Commitment, where each participant pledged to uphold the values of truth, integrity, and service in their role as news correspondents. The CCCom envisions Caceres News  as a response to the Church’s call for modern evangelization, reaching the local faithful beyond the Archdiocese. This seminar-workshop marks the beginning of the writers' journey proclaiming the Good News through media.

SEEKING TO EXPAND ITS mission of compassion and care, the Our Lady of Peñafrancia Basilica Minore and National Shrine launched the Basilica Protection Desk on July 11, 2025. The desk offers a safe, confidential space for individuals experiencing abuse, neglect, or violence. Atty. Christianne Mary P. Villanueva and Mrs. Mercy L. Milla spearheaded the initiative under the guidance of Fr. Eugene Lubigan, marking a significant milestone in the Basilica’s social services efforts. The desk now serves as a sanctuary not only of faith but also of safety, particularly for the most vulnerable. “This is more than just an office,” said Atty. Villanueva in an interview. “This is a living expression of the Church’s commitment to those who are hurting, afraid, or unheard. The Basilica is not just a place of prayer, but a place of protection.” Recognizing the growing need for pastoral and practical responses to abuse and exploitation, the Protection Desk offers compassionate listening, basic assistance, and referral to appropriate agencies such as the CSWD, PNP, or legal aid groups. The initiative coordinates with the Caceres Office for Women and Children Protection (COWCP) to ensure proper alignment with diocesan protocols. Although the desk is still in its early stages and with operational schedules and personnel systems being finalized, Atty. Villanueva assures that the desk is committed to creating a system rooted in empathy and integrity. “Our goal is simple,” she added. “To be a space where no one is judged and no one is turned away.” The Desk will also collaborate with partners such as CSWD-Naga, RTC Naga, the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Division, and the UNC School of Law. Law students will assist through the upcoming Parish Legal Support Desk, while the cybercrime unit strengthens responses to online harassment and abuse, especially among youth. Awareness campaigns and partnerships with barangays and Church groups are also in motion to ensure the community knows where to turn in crisis. At its core, the Basilica Protection Desk embodies the Church’s devotion to Our Lady of Peñafrancia, offering not just services but a message of hope and presence. It stands as a quiet but powerful reminder that no one should feel alone, forgotten, or without support.

Ms. Roem Ane Jacob Dacian Four young parishioners were formally installed as new members of the Parish Communications Guild (PCG) at St. Bartholomew the Apostle Parish in Baao, Camarines Sur on Sunday, July 13, 2025. The ceremony was presided over by Rev. Fr. Isidro Danilo Dizon, affirming the church’s commitment to digital evangelization in modern times. During the 5:30 PM Sunday Mass, the four new members— Krislyn Mae D. Badiola, Iris Dominique Q. Montenegro, Francheska Illisac V. Casili, and Charlize Anica B. Fenix— stood before the altar and received a special blessing, symbolizing the beginning of their commitment to serve as digital missionaries. Parishioners showed joy and hope, welcoming the youth as the modern evangelizers in the digital era. In this time of the Digital Age, the church recognizes the need to use digital technologies as a tool for communication and evangelization. Thus, prompting the parish of St. Bartholomew the Apostle to form its Parish Communications Guild (PCG). Mr. John Wally T. Doroin, the team leader, shared how the established PCG today started with two young men and only using their cellular phones in the live streaming the mass. It was during the pandemic when the demand for access to Eucharistic celebrations prompted the former Parish Priest of SBAP and Director of the Caceres Commission on Communications, now the bishop of Virac, Bishop Luisito A. Occiano to build up the team and establish a social communications ministry in the parish. “The PCG is the eyes, ears, and feet of the people,” Doroin stated. This metaphor explains how the PCG helps in bringing access to parish activities, virtually, especially to those who live far from the church or with physical health limitations. When asked on how the team serves as a tool in evangelization, Doroin emphasized that they are not just a “tool” but missionaries. He indicated that what they are doing is an act of mission in spreading the Good News to people, just like how St. Peter Baptist spread Christianity in several places before his death in Nagasaki. They bring people from distant places, especially the Baaoeños abroad, closer to the church and parish activities, but most importantly, the Gospel. The PCG does not limit its ability to the parish itself. As stated by Doroin, they extend their service by holding seminar-workshops to some other communications ministry from other parishes who aim to establish their own, as well. Just recently, Doroin and teammates held a seminar-workshop in one of the parishes in Iriga City. “I believe that this will be necessary from now on and into the future, as it has already become the new normal,” Doroin said. Meanwhile, an interview with Krislyn Mae Badiola, one of the four newly installed members of the PCG, highlighted the feeling of being “blessed” towards the ministry. “Aside from my cousin who kept on inviting me, it is really my interest and passion for technology and communication that pushed me” Badiola responded when asked about what inspired her to volunteer. She believes that she is not yet at her fullest in terms of skills but is willing to learn, develop more, and be anchored to the ministry. These are sentiments commonly shared by other members, as well. “When you love something, especially your passion, you’re willing to learn more and sacrifice,” Badiola emphasized. At the moment the PCG has fifteen (15) volunteers, mostly youth, who are behind every live coverage of parish activities. The ministry is continuously encouraging others, especially the youth, to be volunteers and share the same mission. In line with the Gospel centered on the Parable of the Good Samaritan, the people are taught to extend love and compassion to everyone. Similarly, the PCG extends information and evangelization to everyone using digital technologies of today as part of their mission. Like the Good Samaritan, the PCG reaches out - not with oil and wine, but through the power of digital media - to bring healing and connection in today’s world. Photos: James Rod Badiola https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19mZGPJeuq/ ?

Last July 19, a ministry for Persons with Special Needs was launched at a Parish in Buhi, Camarines Sur. Holy Mass, Confession, and Anointing of the Sick were observed. In addition, grocery packs, rosaries, scapulars, and clothing were distributed. Parish Priest Fr. Mayo Cesar Herrera thanked Mrs. Fe Belgrado Serrano and the entire Parish Gilean Ministry team for a meaningful and spirit-filled event. (Photo credit: Fr. Mayo Cesar Herrera/St. Vincent Ferrer Parish)

NAGA CITY – Seminarians of the Holy Rosary Major Seminary held their first monthly recollection for Formation Year 2025–2026 last July 4–5, centered on the theme “Forming Hearts for Christ: Pathways to a Shepherd’s Love.” Inspired by Pope Leo XIV’s meditation "With the Heart of Christ," the recollection focused on cultivating a deep interior life, highlighting the Seminary as a "school of affections." The recollection began Friday evening with a Penitential Rite and confession led by Fr. Jhun Oliva, guest confessors, and the Seminary’s spiritual directors. Fr. Xavier Amoroso, Coordinator of Spiritual and Liturgical Formation, facilitated the two-part recollection. In the first session, he outlined the goals of the spiritual gathering: deepening prayer life, growing in affective maturity, sharpening discernment, and becoming compassionate pastors. He emphasized embracing weaknesses as sources of grace and being “bridges, not obstacles” to Christ. Saturday’s session explored the theme “Inner Sanctuary: Cultivating a Profound Interior Life.” Through interactive activities like the “Stillness Jar,” “Breath Prayer Corner,” and “Heart’s Echo” wall, seminarians were guided in creating space for silence, prayer, and interior renewal. The day included moments for personal reflection and class sharing. The recollection concluded with a mass, presided by Fr. Amoroso. In his homily, he likened the start of a new formation year to a fresh, clean notebook—open for God to write something new. Drawing from the Gospel's image of “new wine in fresh wineskins,” he urged the seminarians to welcome renewal not just outwardly but from within. He closed by encouraging them to “begin again today”—ready to be formed and reformed for the mission ahead. Source : Holy Rosary Major Seminary Facebook page

By Elmer Registrado Nuestra Señora de Katipanan or Our Lady of Covenant is the primary patroness of the Holy Cross Parish of Nabua, Camarines Sur, and in the month of July, Nabueños commemorate the “tipan” or covenant which their ancestors made with her 314 years ago. A devotion endemic to the people of Nabua, their “tipan” to the Blessed Virgin Mary was established in 1711 when in the midst of a natural destruction their ancestors made a pact with the image of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception that if they are spared from the earthquake they will tell of her miraculous work and every year thereof will celebrate her feast as Our Lady of Katipanan. Thus this celebration likewise becomes parish day for the faithful of Nabua. Originally, its feast day was celebrated on the 28th day of July until after the establishment of Our Lady of Katipanan Parish in Paloyon, Nabua, Camarines Sur. However, it was acted upon to declare July 28 as the feast day of the titular patron of the parish in Paloyon hence the parish of Holy Cross decided to celebrate its parish day every last Sunday of July. This year’s parish day celebration is extraordinarily noted  because it coincides with the  observance of the Jubilee Year of Hope. And that amidst the many challenges the people of Nabua had such as typhoons, flooding, and other calamities, they still embrace their faith and hope in God and Inang Katipanan and that makes them move forward and be resilient. Fr.  Albert S. Orillo, parish priest of Holy Cross, extended his heartfelt gratitude to all the stakeholders who lent their hands in making the National Youth Days celebration a success. A short program initiated by the Parish Pastoral Council Executive Board together with the Barangay Pastoral Councils was done early in the afternoon of July 27. During the said short program, Apostolic Certificates were awarded to foster families who opened their homes as safe dwelling places of pilgrims during the National Youth Day in Caceres. Bishop Emeritus of Virac, Manolo Delos Santos was the main celebrant during the Tinagba Concelebrated Mass. Among his co-celebrants were Rev. Father Manny Zagada, formator at Holy Rosary Major Seminary; Fr. Andrew Recepcion, School Director of Collegio Filipino in Rome, Italy; Fr. Joseph  Abion, parochial Vicar; and Fr. Orillo, the parish priest. In his homily, Bishop delos Santos expressed how the Holy Cross Parish and the municipality of Nabua had become a part of his priestly formation. He narrated his experience and immersion with the people of barangay Bustrac and Lourdes Young during his early years as a priest. Bishop Manolo was very thankful because after more than thirty years of being a bishop in Virac, it is only now that he was given a chance to celebrate Holy Mass in Holy Cross Nabua – the hometown and parish of his successor Bishop Louie A. Occiano. Within the Holy Mass, the municipal mayor Hon Fernando Simbulan of Nabua led the renewal of covenant to Our Lady of Katipanan. The covenant was translated to Rinconada dialect so that it may impact deep appreciation, understanding and practice. TINAGBA PROCESSION The tinagba is part of the “tipan” made  by the Nabueños ancestors. One of their promises to Inang Katipanan is to offer part of their ‘harvest,’ whether as agricultural products or their earnings during parish day. Year after year this is actively participated by the 17 barangays of the parish. Likewise, institutions such as the Nabua Central Pilot School, Saint Jude Thaddeus Learning Center, and the Local Government Unit of Nabua among others also participated during the Tinagba procession. All products offered were gathered at the Parish Pastoral Function Hall and were properly segregated for distribution. Recipients for this year’s Tinagba proceeds are the Preparatory seminary in San Jose, Holy Rosary Minor Seminary, Holy Rosary Major Seminary, Daughters of Mary Congregation, and the Missionaries of Charity (Gift of Love) in Naga City.

By Roj Falcon The Parish of St. Anne, Magarao, Camarines Sur celebrated its 275th town and parish fiesta last July 26, 2025 and honored the elderly in their masses and various activities. The novena masses were held from July 17 to 25, 2025, with Most Rev. Rex Andrew Alarcon, Archbishop of Caceres as presider of the fourth novena mass, Most Rev. Rolando J. Tria-Tirona, Archbishop Emeritus of Caceres as celebrant on the ninth day and Most Rev. Luisito A. Occiano, Bishop of Virac as main celebrant on the feast day. In his vespera mass homily, Archbishop Tirona emphasized the role of the parish as it thrives and told the faithful that 275 years is not just a number or a chronology but a reminder of their faith, hope, and love as a community, as a town, and as a parish. “You are now part of (the) strengthening the foundation of your parish, an saindong mga pisog kan pagtubod nagkokontribwir para sa saindong parokya, parokyang makusog, parokyang pano nin pagtubod, paglaom, asin pagkamoot sa Kagurangnan Dios,“ Tirona said. Furthermore, he reminded the people of the inspiration given by St. Anne such as faithfulness to God, refuge and consolation as a grandmother of our Lord, and how to grow not just in age but in wisdom. He further added that, “Aging is not a matter of numbers, but a matter of attitude, a matter of mindset, and a matter of the heart.” During the fiesta celebration, Bishop Occiano of the Diocese of Virac presided over the mass concelebrated by guest priests, former parish priests, and priests from Magarao. In his homily, Bishop Louie said “We have to go back to the past. If we appreciate the gifts now, the more we have to appreciate the giver.” He inspired the parishioners by telling them that they should always remember the past and give thanks to the people behind every success. He further said, “Ngunyan na panahon mayaman kita sa pagtubod, mayaman kita sa paglaom asin huli kaini ginigiromdom ta an mga ginikanan niato sa pagpasalamat sa Dios nin huli ta sinda mga bendicion na nagmawot na kita gabos magin marhay, na kita gabos magin maogma.” Occiano also gives tribute to the elderly with what he called “APOstolates” or their service to their grandchildren as they take care of them. “Yaon po sa saindo an pailihan… nagtatao kamo nin limpoy sa tag-init, nagtatao kamong pandong sa tig-uran, nagtatao kamong kagayagayahan asin hapihap sa kadakol na mga kadificilan…kamo po an ilaw.” he said. In connection with honoring the grandparents and the elderly, the parish also had its Concerto ni Lolo at Lola  last July 20, 2025, with the theme: “Talento ni Lolo at Lola, Alay sa Parokya ni Santa Ana”  where the parishioners especially the elderly shared their talents in singing and dancing. Rev. Fr. Balbino Gumabao Jr., Parish Priest, also expressed his gratitude to all the individuals and groups who have supported the parish in their fiesta celebration.

By Antonette Eduardo What’s the best gift we can give ourselves in this fast-paced world? For me, it’s the gift of a pause—a moment to slow down, breathe, and gather myself before moving forward. Fast. Instant. Trendy. These have become the hallmarks of our digital age. Life today moves at a relentless pace, and with it comes the pressure to keep up, to constantly achieve, and to do more. Yet, as we strive to live a life of purpose, we must also remember that caring for ourselves is not optional, but essential. To become the best version of ourselves for others and for our goals, we need to take a meaningful break. That’s where a PAUSE comes in. Here’s what a P.A.U.S.E. can look like: P ray In prayer, we find clarity. We feel God’s presence and guidance, especially when life becomes overwhelming and difficult to comprehend. Through prayer, we can fully surrender everything to God, and in that surrender, we often discover peace. A cknowledge Recognize and assess what’s happening in our life—the good and the bad, the joyful and the painful, the positive and the negative. Only by pausing can we truly become aware of what we’re experiencing, and from there, we are able to respond with intention. U nderstand Acknowledgement is just the beginning. We must also reflect deeply to understand the “why” behind life’s highs and lows. Through this kind of understanding we find insights and solutions when needed and a renewed sense of gratitude for the blessings we receive. S ilence The world can be loud—both externally and internally. Sometimes, we heal the most when we sit in silence. In these quiet moments we find calm, clarity, and the space to reflect. Silence isn’t emptiness but a deeper renewal. E mpower Finally, a true pause doesn’t leave us where it finds us however, discovers us enlightened and strengthened. Let your pause be a moment of encouragement, learning, and empowerment. A time to rise, to grow, and to keep moving forward with resilience. So, take a moment. Embrace stillness. Gift yourself a P.A.U.S.E. It just might be the most powerful gift you can give yourself today. “I lie down and sleep; I wake again, for the Lord sustains me.” [Psalms 3:5]