By Jonnah Abellano The Tomasinong Bikolano (TomBiks) successfully held TOMA-TAKBO 2025: 3K/5K Run "Bolts for Bites" on Saturday, July 26, 2025, bringing together over 300 participants, including running enthusiasts, alumni of the University of Santo Tomas (UST), members of the Philippine National Police, and Armed Forces personnel. The event, held in July in line with TOMBiks' health-centered advocacy, highlighted the vital connection between physical wellness, community involvement, and outreach efforts. To provide context behind the initiative, Fr. Francis A. Tordilla, president of TomBiks, shared that the fun run stemmed from the organization's desire to promote health and well-being while bringing together UST alumni across the Camarines Sur province. "Most of the members are doctors and medical personnel. We came up with an activity that promotes health and well-being, and the best time to drum up the activity is July because it's Nutrition Month," he said. The vision of TomBiks dates back to 2011, when it was first conceptualized by its founding team, including Archbishop Rex Andrew  Alarcon, the organization's first president. At present, working alongside Fr. Tordilla in shaping the advocacy were his key officers: Dr. Richelle Josie Judy Vargas Castro (Vice President), Fr. Jayson Gaite (Secretary), and Dr. Diana Frances Tan (Treasurer). Over time, as the organization grew, so did its leadership structure. Vital roles emerged, with committee heads such as Ms. Roslyn Romano leading Social Services, Ar. Mariel May Gamalinda, managing Social Media Promotions, and Ms. Glenda Grace Velarde, handling Membership Engagement, all of whom played integral roles in the success of TOMA-TAKBO 2025. The event's slogan, "Bolts for Bites," reflects its goal of promoting fitness while supporting a nutritional feeding program for children in Brgy. Sta. Cruz, Camarines Sur. "We wanted to engage in a supplementary feeding program for the young kids in Sta. Cruz, we're trying to link eating with running and feeding. 'Bolts' is inspired by the name of the fastest runner in the world, Usain Bolt," Fr. Tordilla explained. Participants registered for the event, received a race singlet and bib, enjoyed a light breakfast, and participated in a meaningful cause. The event started with a community Zumba session, followed by an opening prayer, a race mechanics briefing, and the official start of the run. Organizers awarded medals to the top 25 male and female finishers and awarded certificates of appreciation to sponsors and volunteers. Beyond the run, TomBiks encourages continued support for the Feed a Family initiative through donations or volunteer involvement. Interested individuals may reach out via the Tomasinong Bikolano official Facebook page or visit the Holy Rosary Minor Seminary. TOMA-TAKBO 2025 reinforces the message that health and nutrition are not merely personal goals, but share community responsibilities. Fr. Tordilla underscored this point: "Health and nutrition are fundamental. If we want our children to grow wise, healthy, and physically fit, we must invest in their diet and well-being. Without health, all other investments will eventually crumble." Indeed, TOMA-TAKBO 2025 proved that running can go beyond fitness, for it can likewise fuel change. With every step, the community moved closer to better health, deeper solidarity, and fuller plates for children in need.

By Jonnah Abellano The Joint Operation Center (JOC) Executive Committee formally convened on July 31, 2025, at the Tercentenary Hall of the Archbishop’s Residence to jumpstart preparations for the 2025 Peñafrancia and Divino Rostro festivities. Civic and Church leaders jointly chaired the meeting, which reactivated inter-agency task groups and presented general activity schedules from the City Government and the Archdiocese of Caceres. Among the civic leaders in attendance were Vice Mayor Gabriel H. Bordado Jr., City Councilor Melvin Ramon Buenafe, and City Legal Officer Atty. Angel Ojastro III, Transition Committee Member Ray-An Cydrick Rentoy. PLt. Col. Borromeo also attended as the representative of PCol Gilbert Fariñas. On the ecclesiastical side, Vicar General Fr. Wilfred Joseph Almoneda, Basilica Rector Fr. Eugene Lubigan, Vice Rector Fr. Jene Lois Sarmiento, Parish Priests Fr. Marcel Emmanuel Real (ICP) and Fr. Glenn Ruiz (Saint Jude Parish and Shrine), and Caceres Commission on Communication (CCCom) Director Fr. Francis Tordilla joined the meeting. In an interview, Fr. Sarmiento cited the meeting’s significance as the groundwork for a more detailed coordination session on August 13. “This was our initial alignment. The city presented its list of activities, and we responded with the Archdiocese’s general schedule. Much of the finer details will be addressed in the next meeting,” he said. The inter-agency task groups, covering traffic, security, health, utilities, and emergency response, will play a vital role in ensuring the safety and order, particularly during the Traslacion and Fluvial processions. The City Government and the Archdiocese plan to sign a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on August 18, 2025, at the Basilica’s Archbishop Legazpi Hall. “This MOA solidifies our shared responsibilities and ensures clarity in our collaboration,” Fr. Sarmiento explained. Organizers will implement several changes this year, including reducing JOC personnel from over 4,000 last year to a projected 3,500. “To compensate, we will strengthen the involvement of the voyadores and the Cofradia. Also, the Youth Sector will participate in the pagoda this year,” he added. As preparations begin, Fr. Sarmiento shared a heartfelt reminder for devotees: “Our devotion to Ina must reflect how we treat our mothers, with respect and love. The number of devotees grows each year, but so does the chaos. The Archdiocese desires to bring everyone back to the true heart of devotion, which is reverence.” Beyond planning and logistics, the preparations remind everyone of the true meaning of the celebration. Church and city leaders encourage devotees to show their faith during the festivities and how they live each day, with respect and discipline. Together, they hope to bring the focus back to what matters most: a sincere and prayerful devotion to Ina and Divino Rostro.

The Church as Communion and the role of Lay Leaders as educators and formators discussed By Dr. Ma. Asuncion Quimlat PILI, Camarines Sur - Over 1,000 Catholic lay leaders attended the recently held Archdiocesan Congress on community leadership at the Fuerte CamSur Sports Complex, August 16, Saturday. In his keynote address, Rev. Fr. Wilmer Joseph Tria, Head of the Archdiocesan Cluster for Education, spoke about the Church as Communion and the role of lay leaders in promoting Communion. These topics are integral to the current pastoral focus of the Archdiocese: “Education towards Communion”.  All are called to a life of holiness  According to Fr. Tria, the theological concept of the Church as Communion is rooted in Vatican II, specifically from “ Lumen Gentium ” (The Light of the World). As stated in this encyclical promulgated by Pope Paul VI, “the Church is a community of believers united with God (our vertical relationship) and with others (our horizontal relationship)”. The Church then, mirrors the relational life of the Trinity -their communion of love and mission. As such, “we have a shared mission”. Fr. Tria exhorted that “we are all called to holiness and service”. He said, “All baptized form one community with equal dignity but [with] diverse roles, working together for the Church’s mission.”  “Communion drives the Church to spread the Gospel, embracing cultural and liturgical diversity, with the Gospel embedded in any culture.” Communion in Action Equally emphasized in the keynote address was the essence of the Church as Communion, highlighted by examples such as parishioners gathering for a Sunday mass and sharing the body and blood of Christ, community service organized by the parish and participated in by both the lay and clergy, and global gatherings that celebrate the faith such as the World Youth Day. The Church as Communion also brings to light the Synod on Synodality, which took place in 2021-2023 under the leadership of Pope Francis. Its fruits continue to shape the future of the Church, which aims for a Church that is more participative, collaborative and inclusive. Hence, it is with these shifts in pastoral leadership style that Fr. Tria calls on the lay leaders of the Archdiocese to be co-responsible in the mission of the Church -to take a more active role in evangelization and catechesis, community building and pastoral care. The lay are called to collaborate with the clergy in facilitating and promoting the Church as Communion, he said.  It was in March of this year that the first Archdiocesan Lay Leaders Congress was held, with Fr. Tria as the keynote speaker as well. In his talk, he emphasized the social action dimension of a community, highlighting the importance of “cultivating [one’s] heart”, discernment and working towards the common good. He also lobbied for ecological stewardship, good governance and accountability in his talk.

by Roj Falcon In celebration of the 16th Foundation Anniversary of the Black Nazarene Parish in Binanuaanan Pequeño, Calabanga, Camarines Sur, the pilgrim image of the Black Nazarene from Quiapo, Manila will once again grace the parishes of Calabanga on August 25-29, 2025. According to Rev. Fr. Russel Pletado, Parish Priest of Black Nazarene Parish, the purpose of the visit is to introduce the devotion especially to the Calabangueños and to remind them of the sacrifice our Lord made for love of humanity. Further, it hopes to strengthen and deepen faith and to continue the said tradition of visits which started in 2016. “An pagbabago na isasagibo ngonian na taon  iyo an aagihan o ruta kan prusisyon. [Ir]reverse po an ruta kan prusisyon. Kun kaidto an pinakahuring madudumanan kan imahen kan Nazareno para sa misa  iyo an parokya kan Black Nazarene, Binanuaanan Pequeño ngonian pinagmarahay na sa parokya nang ini enot na ibababa an imahen asin pinaka enot na macelebrar nin misa kaiba an imahen kan Nazareno haling Quiapo dahil katakod ini kan ika-16th Parish Foundation Anniversary.”  Fr. Pletado shared about the change in this year’s visit. Fr. Russel invites devotees to come and join the activities of the visit of the Black Nazarene. “Pinapaabot ko po an sakong pagimbitar sa gabos para sa makahulugan na aktibidad na ini na gigibohon sa banwaan kan Calabanga orog na sa samuyang parokya  sa maabot na Aug. 25-29, 2025 asin magin ining oportunidad para sa sainda na makapagpamibi tanganing mas mapararom pa an pagtubod asin pagdebosyon sa Kagurangnan, an itom na Nazareno. Lugod, sa paagi kan pagbisitang ini padagos na magkusog man an paglaom sa buhay nin huli sa Kagurangnan.” He added that after every mass, the image will be taken around by way of processions and stations of the cross within the parishes in Calabanga then will be returned to Black Nazarene Parish.               To check the complete and detailed schedule, the devotees are encouraged to visit the Black Nazarene parish office or its official facebook page ( https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16upFGPKNS/?mibextid=wwXIfr )

By Natalie Hazel Quimlat Speaking to hundreds of devotees who came to the Naga Carmelite Monastery yesterday on the Solemnity of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, July 16, Caceres Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon underlined the meaning and symbol of the scapular, a popular sign of devotion to Mary, and called on everyone to emulate the Mother of God, a pillar of hope at the foot of the Cross.  The weight on one’s shoulders Alarcon began his homily by depicting an image of hard work. “One of the symbols or images of labor is our shoulders,” he said. “When we carry heavy loads, we put them on our shoulders.”  A backpack on one’s shoulders, a father carrying his child on his shoulders, a worker placing his tools on his shoulders -these are all but images depicting how much weight one puts on his shoulders. In fact, the prelate said, when one does a good job, we pat them on their shoulders; but when one is tired or in a low mood, we ask why their shoulders are sagging.  Thus, it is with this image of the scapular, the Latin word that refers to one’s shoulder, that Alarcon takes his listeners to the Gospel scene of the day: Calvary. “Determined to finish the mission given to Him,” he said, “Jesus bore the weight of the Cross on His shoulders.”  But looking closely at the scene, it was not only Jesus who had strong shoulders at Calvary. Mary too, His mother, was there, standing on the foot of the Cross, “carrying the weight of the mission on her shoulders”. Jubilee Year of Hope Reflecting on the year declared by Pope Francis as the Jubilee Year of Hope, Alarcon defined hope as “a [daily] fundamental disposition of [man]”.  He went on to discuss the different levels of hope -from the tier that hopes for the simple, mundane things of daily life to the rank that requires patience because what is hoped for takes time to happen; to the level that requires more faith, trust and perseverance, and ultimately, to the degree that stems from the abyss of suffering.  “Here,” Alarcon said, “It is no simple courage [that is required]. We need grace [for] when it is difficult to see and feel the presence of God, a deeper faith [is called for -one] that allows us to surrender to [Him].” “This is the highest level of hope,” he exhorted.  Thus, going back to the Gospel scene, we see Jesus commending His Spirit to the Father, and Mary firmly standing at the foot of the Cross, “in solidarity with her Son” -both completely surrendering to the will of the Father.  Mary: Pillar of Hope Pope Francis defines hope as “a virtue of movement and engine of change”. Throughout her life, Mary has been the epitome of this definition, Alarcon said. The moment she said yes to the will of God, she has been holding and supporting Jesus -present in all the defining moments of Jesus’ life and ministry.  This is in comparison to Lot’s wife who became a pillar of salt when Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed -an image of “something stuck, unable to move, dead”.  Instruments of Hope To be disposed to be at the highest level of hope is a challenge. There are times when man also becomes hopeless, Alarcon said. Thus, when we seek and pray for hope, it is the hope that comes from the mercy of God that we [should] ask, he continued to say.  “Hope that is constantly renewed in the Eucharist, at the Altar of God.”  Ultimately, Alarcon defined hope as “the theological virtue by which we desire the Kingdom of God and heaven, the Kingdom of Heaven and eternal life as our happiness”.  Thus, to hope and to wear the scapular on one’s shoulders as a symbol of commitment also means to “trust in Christ’s promises, not relying on our own strength but the grace of the Holy Spirit”. After all, the promise of the scapular is this: “Whoever dies wearing this Scapular shall not suffer eternal fire.” In closing, Alarcon prayed not only for strong shoulders but also for a renewal of strength, “bottomless hope”, and to be “instruments of hope”.

By Atty. Christianne Mary P. Villanueva NAGA CITY - Last July 11, Friday, the Our Lady of Peñafrancia Minor Basilica and National Shrine officially launched its Protection Desk under the Social Services Ministry led by Atty. Christianne Mary P. Villanueva, Chairperson, and Mrs. Mercy L. Milla, RN, Cluster Head of the Social Services Ministry. Under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Eugene A. Lubigan, Rector of the Basilica, this new ministry is envisioned to provide a safe and compassionate space for individuals who may be experiencing abuse, violence, neglect, or other forms of pain.    During the launch, Fr. Lubigan expressed his full support for the Desk and shared his prayers and hopes for its success. Fr. Jhonan’z D. Vibar, Chairperson of the Caceres Office for Women and Children Protection (COWCP), reminded everyone of the importance of collaboration. He acknowledged that while the Church does not have police power, it can play a vital role in protecting our vulnerable brothers and sisters.   Organizers also highlighted that the Protection Desk aims to complement formal systems so there will be greater avenues for access to justice. Hon. Judge Pablo C. Formaran, Executive Judge of RTC Naga and Naga City Justice Zone Convenor (NCJC), emphasized the judiciary’s growing efforts to reach out and engage with communities, stressing that access to justice can be better achieved through close coordination with the judiciary, prosecution, law enforcement, and community. Atty. Raiza Nicole Mendiola-Ladlad, Regional Court Manager and NCJZ Project Head, detailed the support that will be extended to the Basilica by the Naga City Justice Zone together with the University of Nueva Caceres (UNC) College of Law. A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was recently signed between UNC and the Basilica so Law student practitioners who will offer basic legal counseling at designated hours may offer their services.   The event was graced by distinguished guests and key partners who expressed full support for this meaningful endeavor.

By Natialie Hazel Quimlat Devotees of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel came to the Naga Carmelite Monastery to participate in the novena masses prior to the Solemnity of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, July 16, Wednesday. Daily catechesis on vocation precede the masses held in the afternoon. Bicol Bishops also came to celebrate the novena masses and concelebrate the mass on the feast day. Caceres Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon was the main celebrant and preacher last July 16. (Photos by Natalie Hazel Quimlat)

by Mina Bermudo A Cáceres News Correspondents Workshop was held last Saturday, July 5, at the Coko Cafe of the Ateneo de Naga University, gathering volunteer correspondents and writers from across the Archdiocese. Organized by the Caceres Commission on Communications (CCCom) headed by Fr. Francis Tordilla, the workshop aims to strengthen evangelization through effective, meaningful storytelling, rooted in faith, service, and a shared commitment to spreading the Good News. (Photo credit: Archdiocese of Caceres Facebook page)

By CBCP News TAGBILARAN CITY— A national consultation on synodal implementation concluded July 3 with a rallying call for delegates to “do the B.E.S.T.” as they bring the synodal journey’s fruits back to their dioceses and communities. In his homily during the closing Mass, Bishop Herman Abcede of Daet drew inspiration from the post-resurrection encounter between Jesus and the Apostle Thomas, framing a four-part challenge: Believe, Enter, See, and Touch. “Let us do the B-E-S-T. Believe. Enter. See. Touch,” he declared. “Those who do not believe, enter, see, and touch— will not reach the synodality we are journeying toward.” Reflecting on the Gospel and the Church’s synodal path, he stressed the journey’s dual nature—both inward and outward—calling for deep interior conversion alongside renewed commitment to mission. “We’ve come a long way, but there’s still a long way to go,” he said, acknowledging the progress and remaining challenges of the synodal process. A Spirit-led path forward The bishop reminded participants that the Holy Spirit remains the Church’s guide, even through uncertainty and disruption. “The Holy Spirit is the one who is going to work for all of us,” he said. “With God’s grace, we hope to carry out the recommendations and proposals, contextualizing them in our respective pastoral settings… down to the level of the BECs and families.” 4 steps to synodality In a creative reinterpretation of Jesus’ words to Thomas, Abcede outlined an action-oriented framework for the Church’s mission: Believe – Even amid uncertainty, the bishop encouraged trust in the synodal process. “Do not be unbelieving, but believe,” he quoted Jesus, adding, “Those who do not believe will not reach synodality.” Enter – Immerse oneself in the lives of others, especially those on the margins. “Those who do not enter the world of others will not reach synodality.” See – Recognize Christ in the wounded and participate in healing and service. “Those who do not look and participate will not reach synodality.” Touch – Personally engage in the Church’s mission and become true collaborators in proclaiming God’s love.”Those who do not hold on to the Lord as His coworkers will not reach synodality.” Challenge, hope Abcede also shared his personal journey from skepticism to advocacy of synodality. “Even I myself, before I became bishop, I did not believe [in] synodality. But when I entered into it and understood it, I became a promoter—not because I was ordained bishop, but because it is what the Church (needs today).” He made a prayerful challenge: to continue walking together as “co-responsibles” in mission, grounded in love, discernment, and shared responsibility. “No matter how long the procession, we will eventually reach the synodality that we desire as our destination. As long as we remain united, helping one another, and moving forward in mission. Let’s do the best,” Abcede said. About 180 delegates attended the three-day consultation composed of bishops, priests, consecrated persons and laypeople from all dioceses across the country. The national meeting followed a series of regional synodal consultations aiming to craft a national framework for a synodal program on synodal transformation.

By CBCP News THE Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) opened its first-ever retreat in Bohol province on Monday, marking a historic step in the Church’s ongoing journey of synodality. At the welcome Mass at Dauis Church, Tagbilaran Bishop Alberto Uy greeted more than a hundred bishops and synodal delegates — a mix of priests, consecrated persons and laypeople — with a message of urgency and hope. “The bishop’s decision to come to Bohol is not just for a change in venue,” he said. “It is deeply symbolic. Like Jesus moving from village to village, he said, the bishops came not just to rest but to reflect, pray and walk with the people. Drawing from the day’s Gospel and the Genesis story of Abraham interceding for Sodom, Uy addressed the moral, social and spiritual wounds faced by Filipino communities — from fractured families and disillusioned youth to systemic injustice and poverty. “We often carry the burden of seeing the bigger picture,” he said, “but Genesis reminds us: God looks for even the few, the faithful remnant, to justify His mercy.” He added: “We do not preach doom. Why? Because our God is not only just. He is merciful.” The retreat is part of the CBCP’s broader synodal journey, aligned with Pope Francis’ call for a Church that listens, discerns and walks together. Uy captured this spirit by urging the Church to embrace its vocation as an intercessor. “Let the Church be found on its knees — not in fear, but in hope,” he said. “To our bishops and priests: When we kneel in prayer for our people, when we speak prophetically on behalf of the poor and voiceless, we become part of that sacred tradition of not giving up on the city, the nation and the people,” he added. Reflecting on the cost of discipleship, Uy also spoke candidly about the loneliness and exhaustion many in ministry feel today. “Some of us have faced betrayal, burnout or financial burdens,” he said. “Many priests feel tired, alone or misunderstood. And yet we continue. Why? It’s because we are not chasing burdens — we are following a Person.” “He does not promise security,” he added. “But He promises Himself.” This year’s retreat holds added significance as it coincides with the Church’s Jubilee Year of Hope. Hosting the CBCP in Bohol — known for its deep Catholic roots and vibrant lay involvement — underscores the Church’s desire to root its future direction in the lived faith of ordinary Filipinos. In closing, Uy thanked the people of Bohol for their generosity and faith. “Let us repay their kindness with our prayers,” he said. As the bishops and synodal delegates begin their four-day retreat, reflection and consultation, they carry with them the prayers of a nation and the challenges of a Church seeking renewal. “May we leave this gathering not just with strategies,” Uy said, “but renewed in the spirit of Christian hope — stronger than death, deeper than sin and more enduring than the unworthiness of this world.” After the retreat, the bishops will hold their 130th plenary assembly, the highest decision-making body of the CBCP, that will be held in the neighboring Diocese of Talibon on July to 5 to 7.

By Natalie Hazel Quimlat/CBCP News The Archdiocese of Caceres expressed deep sorrow following the suicide of a teenage boy inside a church in Naga City on Sunday evening, June 29. Reports said the 18-year old took his own life shortly after a Mass at the Parish Churhc of San Francisco de Asis. "We extend our heartfelt prayers and compassion to the bereaved family and to all parishioners who have been affected by this painful event," the statement read. "In these moments of sorrow and uncertainty, the Church offers not judgment, but the hope of Christ's mercy," it said. The archdiocese said it is working with authorities and is providing psychological and pastoral support to the victim's family, witnesses and members of the parish community. Licensed psychologists and trained pastoral counselors are availabel for trauma support and spiritual care. Citing church law, the archdiocese announced that San Francisco Church will remain closed to the public until Tuesday, July 2, to allow time for prayer, mourning and liturgical reparation. Public liturgical celebration have been suspended during this period. A Rite of Reparation and Healing is scheduled on the evening of July 2 to restore the church's sacred character and offer communal healing. "We pray for the eternal repose of the soul of the deceased. We pray that deep psychological suffeing will not lead to hopelessness," it said. Church officials urged anyone experiencing emotional distress to seek help from clergy, counselors or trusted individuals. "We are here for you," the archdiocese said. The statement also appealed for privacy for the family during this time of mourning.

AS President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, I speak not in the name of any political group or interest, but from the perspective of the Church’s social teaching, which calls for moral responsibility, accountability, and the primacy of the common good in public life. The Senate of the Republic of the Philippines has a constitutional duty to act on impeachment cases brought before it. This duty is not optional. It is a solemn mandate arising from the principle of checks and balances enshrined in our democratic system. While impeachment is by nature a political and quasi-judicial process, it is not exempt from the moral demands of truth, justice, and accountability. In a constitutional democracy, political authority must be exercised within the bounds of law and with respect for the truth. When politics serves only partisan interest, it degenerates into manipulation; but when it is guided by conscience and the common good, it becomes a noble service. To delay, dismiss, or ignore such a process for reasons of political convenience is to betray the Constitution and the people’s trust. As stewards of public office, senators are not only answerable to the law but are also bound in conscience to act with integrity and impartiality. The Church teaches that political authority exists to serve the common good (cf. Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church, 393–406). Public officials must transcend partisan interests and act in a spirit of justice and truth. The search for truth is not a political agenda; it is a moral imperative. We appeal to all senators, especially to those in leadership, to allow the constitutional process to proceed without obstruction. If there is nothing to hide, there is nothing to fear. Let conscience guide your actions. Let the truth take its course. Pablo Virgilio S. Cardinal David Bishop of Kalookan