By Atty. Raizel V. Dimaano One year ago, a quiet yet powerful dream took flight on the airwaves. Born from a shared vision between the Ateneo de Naga University College of Law – Ignatian Legal Apostolate Office (ILAO) and the Cáceres Office for Women and Children Protection (COWCP), “Magistoryang Legal” began as a small radio project with a big heart: to bring the Law closer to those who need it most. Law made closer On May 31, 2024, the seeds were planted during the ceremonial signing of the MOU, featuring Atty. Raizel V. Dimaano, Project Manager of Project Magis-ILAO, and Rev. Fr. Jhonan’z D. Vibar, Chairperson of the COWCP. United in their commitment, they vowed to make the Law a powerful instrument of inclusion, education and service. Four days later, “Magistoryang Legal” launched its inaugural episode on DWRV 98.3 FM Radio Caritas Mariae – The Mother’s Touch, marking the start of a monthly tradition. Every first Tuesday of the month from 9:00 to 10:30 AM, each episode has been a humble offering of knowledge to the people -the Law made simple. The Year in retrospect Throughout the year, a line-up of dedicated and empathetic lawyers became guest speakers, each illuminating important and relevant legal issues. The inaugural episode featured Atty. Juddene R. Bernardo, who provided a comprehensive overview of the legal landscape alongside Law Student Practitioner (LSP), Ms. Kim Lasala. On July 2, Atty. Lydie Ron Bonacua addressed the\ critical issue of trafficking in persons together with LSP, Ms. Precious Grace Follero Peregrino. This was followed by Atty. Michelle G. Barandon on August 6, who focused on the rights of domestic workers as outlined in the Kasambahay Law. Atty. Joseph Ceasar Sahurda illuminated the topic of Torts and Damages on September 3, while Atty. Alfea Barra focused on the laws safeguarding Senior Citizens on October 1. In the episode that aired on November 5, Atty. Ma. Abegail O. Tipones delved into Insurance Law, addressing the urgent needs of those impacted by the extraordinary flooding caused by Typhoon Kristine. In December, Atty. Joseph Kim Buenafe brought attention to the fundamental principles of Human Rights. As the new year opened, Atty. Lydie Ron Bonacua took the stage on January 7, to address the critical issue of Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC). This was followed by Atty. Her Lynn Balares on February 4, who expertly clarified the intricacies of the Data Privacy Act. The March episode showcased Atty. Jomari Ian F. Simando, who provided a clear explanation of ejectment suits and recovery of possession. In April, Atty. Louie Beriña delivered an engaging discussion on the laws impacting seafarers, with a focus on the Labor Code and Migrant Workers Act. On May 6, a compelling and relevant episode featured Atty. Alfea Barra alongside Legal Service Practitioners Kim Noelle Odilamar and Jao Elegado, discussing critical issues such as vote buying, vote selling, and the misuse of state resources, all in anticipation of the upcoming elections held last May 12. Lastly, on June 3, Atty. Khim Naval guided listeners through the intricacies of workers’ rights under Labor Law in a special episode titled “Karapatan ng Manggagawa”. A Ministry of Hope and Awareness The name “Magistoryang Legal” was coined from Project Magis, the ILAO initiative rooted in the Ignatian call to “do more.” Combined with istorya -the Bikol word for story, it reflects the spirit of the program. At its heart, Atty. Rai anchors each episode with a unique blend of legal expertise, warmth and deep pastoral mission. Her voice has become a trusted guide for those eager to understand the Law with confidence. As Fr. Vibar puts it, “Legal formation is pastoral work too, when it brings light to the lives of those in darkness.” This Atty. Rai affirms, “Magistoryang Legal is not just a project—it is a mission. It is a ministry of hope and awareness, where the Law meets the people where they are.” A year later, with a very dedicated team, this mission continues to resonate through the airwaves. Through each voice, each topic and every episode, “Magistoryang Legal” continues to plant seeds of justice, thereby enriching communities with truth and serving as a poignant reminder that when the Law is grounded in love, it transforms into a powerful language of mercy.

(Transcription by Myrna Bermudo 2 June 2025) Thank you very much po dear fathers, Sir Allen Reondanga, Sir Rene Gumba, PLt Col Chester Pomar of PNP Naga,representatives from LGU Naga and of course Hon. Mayor Nelson Legacion, PNP, our media partners, youth delegates, delegation heads, friends, NYD Caceres, to those of you who are attending this press conference thank you for being here today. Thank you for attending this press conference. The first word is “Thank You!” to all of you who are participating. To all of you who are interested. To all of you who are helping particularly the different agencies, civic and government agencies who are helping us in the preparation. And of course the host families, the parishes, the parish priests, the youth leaders who are working for the National Youth Day, Thank You ! To you, the delegates who are coming, Thank You. We are happy to welcome you to Naga! As mentioned earlier, from 2019, this is the first national meeting of young people as far as the Episcopal Commission on Youth is concerned. So, we are very happy to resume and providentially here in Naga, in Caceres. At kasabay ng Jubilee Year 2025 na Pilgrimage of Hope. At tamang tama, while are celebrating the Pilgrimage of Hope, papunta naman dito ang mga kabataan dito sa Pilgrim City of Naga, this Pilgrim Province of Camarines Sur and of course the Bicol Region. At yong pagpunta dito ay opportunity for all us, as hosts, to share our place, our culture, and to share our devotion. At yon namang pupunta dito, our visitors, opportunity for them to share their experiences, their joy, their excitement, their dreams and aspirations. Tamang tama ang theme natin ay Rejoice in Hope, Endure in Affliction and Persevere in Prayer. It is also in line with the Jubilee Year the spirit that we want to sustain in us is the spirit of hope. And this is also an opportunity for the youth - we always say that the youth is not only the future but the youth is the now. I'm sure all you, all who are here, and specially those who are leaders, you have been sustaining your desire to serve others sapagkat yan po ay napukaw noong ikaw ay kabataan pa. At hanggang ngayon ay nagpapatuloy pa. At yan ang gusto nating ibigay na opportunity sa mga young people na darating dito- una, sa pamamagitan ng kanilang karanasan ng pagpunta dito, ng paglalakbay, ng pakikilahok sa kapwa kabataan, ay lalo pang umigting ang pag-asa, ang pagnanais na maglingkod and to make a difference in the life of others . At dahil ito ay pagtitipon ng marami, ibang diyosesis, arkidiocesis, at mga bayan, ito ay nagpapa- alala sa atin ng kahalagahan ng pagiging community, ng sambayanan. At sa panahon natin ngayon sinasabi natin na ang pag-unlad ay hindi na lamang nangyayari dahil sa galing at sigasig ng isang tao kundi dahil, there is a community that is working together, a community who helps one another and ready to support one another. At ito ang nakikita natin, hindi lamang sa pagtutulungan ng simbahan at ng gobierno, ng PNP, ng health services at iba pa. Ito ay nakikita nating tuwing tayo ay may pagdiriwang. And, in our times, we continue to emphasize the need for collaboration, networking, synergy, interdependence , linkages. Ito po ay napakahalaga. At para sa kabataan ang isang benefit ng pagpunta dito ay nahuhubog sa atin ang cross cultural competency. Yong natututo tayo makilahok, makipagtalastasan, makipag- usap, makibagay sa kapwa-kabataan na hindi tagarito sa atin. Kabataan na taga- ibang lugar, kabataan na may ibang pananaw pero katulad natin, Pilipino din naman. At ito ay nagbubuklod sa atin towards nation building but also enriching our church community building. And for us, this is also a very good time to share what we have. Alam ninyo, marami nagsasabi sa akin na, Bishop, pupunta po kami sa inyo! We are excited po, pupunta kami sa Naga for the National Youth Day! I am amazed at the excitement of people who are coming and I am equally amazed for some generous few people who have come and readily offered help. Ako, I am very sure that whatever good that we continue to do are like seeds that we sow and will continue to grow. So, ito po ay pagbabahagi ng ating lugar at ng ating resources, at ng panahon din. I am very sure that whatever good we do are like seeds that we sow and someday will grow. At yan ang karanasan natin bilang mga kabataan. It is very good for us here in Naga to, here in Camarines Sur, here in Bicol, to provide these experiences for many of our young people. Kung babalikan natin ang ating mga karanasan "Oo nga, sumama ako sa isang camp, sa isang Youth Day, sa isang Youth Camp, sumama ako sa isang National Youth Day! At iyan ay hindi ko makakalimutan kasi iyon ay mahalaga sa akin." Kaya po, welcome! We are happy to welcome the delegates! We are happy to welcome the youth ministers and those who are coming here! We welcome the support. And we are very grateful to the stakeholders and to the assistance of those who are providing help. Ang focus, ay mga virtues. Palakasin ang ating virtues. Pakakasin ang ating "loob" We hope and we pray that these events will truly be enriching both personally, communally both as church and as a nation. Kaya, once again, ipinapaabot ko ang pasasalamat, in the name of the Episcopal Commission on Youth, sa lahat na nag- aambag ng tulong - from the LGU, PNP, civic organizations, media partners, you are very important. Thank you for helping us disseminate this very important event. This will also showcase our place and our culture and devotion. Thank you for the foster families, parokya, the youth of Caceres, team headed by Fr. Dan Vegas, NYD Caceres, the Episcopal Commission on Youth, with Fr. Jude Licuanan, thank you for organizing this press conference. Again, our sincere gratitude. And we pray that this will truly be an enriching experience for all of us-isang pagtatagpo na magbibigay sa ating lahat ng panibagong pag-asa since this year is a Jubilee of Hope, we all can work together, to rise up again and do wonderful things for each one, especially for those in need, for fellow young people and for everyone. Thank you very much po.

By Myrna S. Bermudo “Be open to collaborate -to be part of a community [that] helps one another and [is] ready to support one another.” This was the message of Caceres Archbishop Rex Andrew C. Alarcon as he welcomed the delegates of the upcoming National Youth Day (NYD) 2025. Alarcon, in his message, underlined the importance of inclusivity. “In our time, we continue to emphasize the need for collaboration, networking, synergy, interdependence, and linkages. This is very important.” In addition, with delegates coming from various places and cultures, NYD is both a blessing and a challenge for cross cultural competency. Alarcon said, “For the youth, one of the benefits of attending the NYD is they become cross cultural competent. We learn to engage and discuss, ‘makibagay as kapwa-kabataan na hindi taga-rito sa atin’ -a fellow youth with different views but still, a Filipino. This fosters unity among us, towards nation building and enriches Church community building.” A highly anticipated event. After a long hiatus due to the pandemic, Alarcon expressed much joy in hosting this event for the youth. “We are happy to welcome you to Naga!”, he exclaimed. The last NYD was supposed to be in 2021, on the occasion of the 500th year of Christianity in the Philippines. However, it was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Alarcon also shared that a lot of delegates approach him and say, “Bishop, pupunta po kami sa inyo! We are excited po, pupunta kami sa Naga for the National Youth Day!” “I am amazed at the excitement of the people who are coming and I am equally amazed for some generous few people who have come and readily offered help,” he continued to say. An opportunity to share “[Having pilgrims] here is also an opportunity for all of us, as hosts, to share our place, our culture and our devotion; while those visiting [have the] opportunity to share their experiences, joy, excitement, dreams, and aspirations.”, Alarcon said. “Our theme is also timely, ‘Rejoice in Hope, Endure in Affliction and Persevere in Prayer’.” Slated on June 10-14, NYD 2025 is hosted by the Archdiocese of Caceres, with activities and events happening mainly in the Pilgrim City of Naga, known for its strong devotion to Ina, Our Lady of Peñafrancia. The NYD is organized by the Episcopal Commission on Youth and the Caceres Youth Commission. This long-awaited event expects about 8,000 youth pilgrims and volunteers from 82 ecclesiastical territories and 22 organizations. Alarcon is also the Chairman of the Episcopal Commission on Youth. His message to the pilgrims and volunteers for NYD 2025 was delivered on May 30 during the Press Conference for the said event.

By Natalie Hazel Quimlat / CBCP News BISHOP Herman Abcede formally assumed his role as the fifth bishop of the Diocese of Daet on May 1, the feast of St. Joseph the Worker. A member of the Rogationist Fathers of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Abcede succeeds Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon, who was appointed in February 2024 to lead the Archdiocese of Caceres. Reflecting on his episcopal motto, “Rogate Ergo Dominum Messis” (Therefore, pray to the Lord of harvest), he said the passage serves as a guiding principle in his leadership. “The work of evangelization does not begin with a strategy but with supplication. The mission is not ours to control, but the Lord’s to direct,” Abcede said. “When we pray for laborers we acknowledge that evangelization is God’s work and we become open to His plan, [prepared for an unexpected answer],” he added. “When we pray for laborers, God often calls us to be part of the answer,” he continued to say in his message. “Our prayers should come with the willingness to respond, ‘Here I am Lord, send me.’” Abcede was ordained to the episcopate by Alarcon, who also presided over the installation ceremony at the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity. About 13 bishops attended the occasion, including Archbishop Socrates Villegas of Lingayen-Dagupan, who delivered the homily. “Bishop Herman is the answer to your prayers. He comes here as a worker who cannot be repaid, [one] who cannot be remunerated, because his renumeration can only be completed in heaven,” Villegas said. “He comes here without a boss but the Lord Jesus, the Good Shepherd. He comes as a worker who is appointed; and he is going to work differently by blessing us,” he added. Born in Vinzons, Camarines Norte, Abcede was ordained a priest on June 8, 1996. His religious congregation, founded by St. Hannibal, is dedicated to praying for and fostering vocations. “Bishop Abcede comes home as a bishop for the Church in Daet—a worker of the Lord, the work of the Lord, and a co-worker with God’s people,” Villegas said. “He is going to be our brother, our friend, walking with us.”

Harampangan 2025 ignited civic dialogue last Monday, April 28, at the Ateneo de Naga University Covered Courts where the Midterm Elections Forum was held. Gubernatorial Candidate Mr. Bong Rodriguez and Congressional Candidates Mr. Noel De Luna, Atty. Nelson Legacion, and Atty. Pito Tria engaged with a live audience of 2,700 attendees and an ever-growing online community, with over 730,000 livestream views. This milestone event stands as a testament to the power of informed participation and democratic discourse in shaping the future of our province. (Source: Archdiocese of Caceres Facebook page) IN a pastoral letter entitled “Choose what is right: A moral responsibility for Election 2025”, Virac Bishop Luisito Occiano reminded both voters and candidates that “as stewards of God’s creation, we are called to stand for truth, justice and the common good”. Our vote should reflect our deepest values “Choose leaders who share our values and can bring hope and unity to our communities,” he said. “Choose [those] whom we entrust both our lives and [our] future [to].” “Seek candidates who prioritize life and [the] dignity of the human person; protect the family, community, and encourage participation; defend rights and fulfill responsibilities; demonstrate preferential option for the poor and [the] vulnerable; uphold the dignity of work and the rights of workers; work for solidarity; and care for God’s creation.” Nation and others first Occiano also wrote to candidates in his letter. “Strive to improve the lives of our people,” he said, “especially the poor and the vulnerable. This is the primary responsibility of a public servant.” His pastoral letter was released 3rd Sunday of Easter. Also reflecting on the Gospel on the 3rd Sunday of Easter vis-a-vis the upcoming elections is the newly ordained and installed prelate of Daet. In his homily, Bishop Herman Abcede, RCJ emphasized the essence of leadership, i.e., service. He also counseled voters, telling them, “Do not let your vote betray the Lord you claim to love. Discern and pray over your decision.”

By Natalie Hazel Quimlat ON Easter Monday, April 21, the Holy Father, Pope Francis passed away in his home, Casa Santa Marta, after suffering a stroke, which eventually led to a coma and cardiocirculatory collapse. He was 88. This comes after almost a month since he was discharged from the Agostino Gemelli Hospital in Rome after enduring a complex case of bilateral pneumonia. In his wake, Bicol Bishops and priests paid tribute and immediately offered masses. Last Easter Tuesday, April 22, Legazpi Bishop Joel Baylon presided over their Diocesan Requiem Mass for Pope Francis. In his homily, Baylon recalled his personal encounters with Francis, whom he described as “accessible, approachable and welcoming”. He said, “He was just one of us. He never exuded power or authority. He was never distant. He made us feel welcome -[this] will always be the image that I have of Pope Francis.” In addition, the Legazpi prelate spoke of the kind of papacy the late Pontiff lived out. Francis was simple, he said, and had high respect and regard for people -whoever they may be and wherever they may be coming from. “He was a man for others,” he continued to say, “but was also a man with courage. He challenged others. [He called us] to be merciful, not condemning; to embrace, not to reject; to respect, not to abuse and misuse one another.” Caceres Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon called Pope Francis the “Pope of our time”. This he said in an article published for Licas News. According to Alarcon, the Pope’s final public

By Maximilian Ministry NAGA CITY – Through the efforts of the Caceres Commission on Prison Welfare also known as Maximilian Ministry headed by Rev. Fr. Jayson S. Gaite, Chairman of the said Commission and in coordination with the BJMP and Provincial Jails Administration, the Holy Week celebration in jails were observed and participated in actively by the Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDL) in the 5 jail facilities within the ecclesiastical jurisdiction of the Archdiocese of Caceres. As Holy Week started, PDLs joined the Holy Masses in their respective jail facilities offering their prayers, hope and renewal during the Blessing of Palms on Palm Sunday. On Holy Wednesday, the CCPW Maximilian Ministry had their traditional Visita Altares and Way of the Cross themed “Via Crucis: An Dalan kan Krus kaiba an mga Preso”. PDLs wait in their respective jails with their prepared Altars, and together with the group that carry the image of the Black Nazarene, offered their prayerful wishes and sacrifice. “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” John 13:15 – On Maundy Thursday, there was a Mass of the Lord’s Supper and Washing of the Feet held in jails. The PDLs representing the 12 Disciples of Jesus had their feet washed and kissed by the priest presiders. There was a procession of the Holy Host inside the jails and was revered by everyone in the Altars of Repose prepared by the PDLs. The scene of Cenaculo followed with the 12 PDL Disciples reenacting the Last Supper with Jesus. On Good Friday, the commemoration of the Seven Last Words of Jesus (Siete Palabras) was given by invited priests and service providers and was participated in by selected PDLs who shared their own reflections on the Word they were assigned to. It was truly a touching experience especially on the part of the PDLs because they were given the chance to express and share their thoughts and personal encounters on the goodness of God to them. After the Last Word, the “Pagsamba sa Krus” and “Banal na Komunyon” followed where the PDLs embraced God’s love, mercy and forgiveness. Late in the afternoon of Black Saturday, the light of Christ shined bright within the jails. With the image of the Resurrected Christ, the PDLs experienced the profound joy filled with hope, healing and faith through the celebration of the Easter Vigil Mass. These were observed: Lighting of the Paschal Candles, renewal of Baptismal Vows and Blessings of New Fire and Water. On Easter Sunday, the PDLs joyously celebrated the day with the Holy Mass. Through the CCPW Maximilian Ministry together with the generous sponsorship of individuals, groups and parishes, different Vicariates in the Archdiocese of Caceres, anonymous donors and supporters, there was food sharing and toiletry giving to all PDLs. This highlighted the closing of the Holy week celebration behind bars.

THE Caceres Gilean Ministry gave an orientation for their volunteers at the San Vicente de Ferrer Parish in Buhi, Camarines Sur last March 22. Members of the Core Group each discussed a topic: Chairperson Fr. Jaime Danilo Viola on the history and mission of the Ministry; Dr. Ma Asuncion Quimlat on the medical aspect of the different types of Disabilities; Engr. Virgie Nacario and Mrs. Wilhelmina Tino on the law and benefits provided by the Government for Persons with Disabilities; and Mrs. Fidela Malaluan on the organization, and suggested activities and programs. An animation led by Ms Marly Magistrado started the orientation. Presently, Fr Mayo Cesar Herrera is the Parish Priest of San Vicente Ferrer Parish. (Photo by Brian Christopher Quimlat)

CBCP News POPE Francis on Wednesday appointed Father Ronald Anthony Timoner as the new bishop of the Diocese of Pagadian in the southern Philippines. Timoner, 53, will take canonical possession of a diocese that has been vacant since the death of Bishop Ronald Lunas on Janunary 2, 2024. The Vatican announced the appointment at noon Rome time (6pm in the Philippines). Born in 1971, Timoner studied philosophy at the Holy Rosary Major Seminary in Naga City and theology at the University of Santo Tomas in Manila. He was ordained a priest in the Diocese of Daet in Camarines Norte province on May 1, 1997. After serving in several parish assignments, including as a formator at Holy Trinity College Seminary in Daet, he went on study leave at the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas in Rome, where he obtained his licentiate in theology. Upon returning to the Philippines, he served as a chancellor ofthe Daet diocese under then-Bishop Gilbert Garcera, who has been archbishop of Lipa since 2017. In 2019, then-Daet Bishop Rex Andrew Alarcon appointed him vicar general, a position he held until the prelate was names archbishop of Caceres in 2024. A vicar general is the highest-ranking official in a diocese after the bishop. He is a cleric deputed to exercise episcopal jurisdiction in the bishop's name, and his actions are considered those of the bishop himself. Prior to his episcopal appointment, Timoner has served as diocesan administrator of Daet, which now has a new bishop. Rogationist Father Herman Abcede is set to be ordained to the episcopate and installed as Daet bishop on May 1, 2025. Timoner is the younger brother of Fr. Gerard Francisco Timoner, the first Asian and current head of the Order of Preachers, or the Dominican Order, worldwide. As the new bishop of Pagadian, he will oversee a diocese of more than 1.3 million people, roughly 80 percent of whom are Catholic, spread across 26 parishes.

Roselyn A. Bermudo TWO hundred thirty (230) participants from the Pastoral Councils, Religious Organizations and Ministries of the different Parishes in the Archdiocese of Caceres, together with the Chairpersons of the various Ministries and Commissions of the said Archdiocese gathered last March 8, at the Archbishop Legaspi Hall of the Minor Basilica of Our Lady of Peñafrancia for the PDAC and Lay Leaders Congress. PDAC refers to the Pastoral Department of the Archdiocese of Caceres and is composed of the Priest-Directors of the Worship, Education, Social Services, Temporalities, Youth, Clergy, and Laity Ministry Clusters. It is headed by the Archbishop with the assistance of the Vicar General. The Congress is one of the activities for the 2025 Archdiocesan thrust: “Education towards Communion”. The event began with an inspiring talk by Fr. Fidel Bagayaua on “Empowering Leaders,” followed by a meaningful discussion by Fr. Wilmer Tria on “Catholic Citizenship and Education Engagement.” Fr. Bagayaua presented the qualities of a good leader and asked the participants to be servant-leaders. He also showed a video on Self-Leadership. Meanwhile, Fr. Tria’s presentation, entitled “Cultivating the Heart,” followed the pastoral cycle framework: See, Judge, Act. He said awareness on social issues, discernment and commitment to work for the common good are essential to become good and responsible citizens. Fr. Marc Real, Director of CARITAS-Caceres -the Social Action Ministry of the Archdiocese, also gave a presentation regarding the PPCRV (Parish Pastoral Council for Responsible Voting). Fr. Real emphasized the preparation needed for the upcoming May elections. In addition, Fr. Francis Tordilla presented the results of a survey conducted on social issues answered by parish priests. Based on the survey, poverty and hunger; unemployment and lack of livelihood; and environmental concerns were the top three issues. He also presented the recommendations of the parish priests to address these. The afternoon became a lively and meaningful discussion due to the Spiritual Conversation led by Ms. Julma Narvadez, highlighting the importance of being aware of the promptings of the Holy Spirit through personal reflection and listening without judgment. In each small group, the clergy and lay discussed social issues faced by each parish and explored possible solutions. The event became even more meaningful and blessed with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist presided by Caceres Archbishop Rex Andrew C. Alarcon, D.D. He thanked the participants for dedicating their weekend to the Congress and said that despite the many challenges, there is hope as can be seen in the commitment of the participants to serve the Church. Caceres Vicar General, Fr. Wilfred Almoneda led the preparation for the said Congress.

By Natalie Hazel Quimlat The Caceres Commission on Communications (CCCom) in collaboration with KBP Camarines Sur held its annual Lenten Recollection for media personnel last Saturday, March 22, at the Ragazzi Resort Hotel. This reaffirmed the media’s vital role not only in reporting news but in spreading hope, guarding truth and effecting positive change in society. CCCom Director, Fr. Francis Tordilla, was the main talk giver while Ms. Julma Narvadez facilitated the spiritual conversation thereafter. A Via Crucis preceded the eucharistic celebration that culminated the annual recollection. It was presided over by Fr. Roy Regaspi, who was joined Fr. Francis Tordilla, Fr. Roy Raña and Fr. Conrad Flores, FFI. 48 media practitioners were present. (Source: Archdiocese of Caceres Facebook page) NAGA CITY - The annual Lenten Media Recollection was held last March 22, Saturday, at the Ragazzi Resort Hotel; and was attended by 48 media practitioners. Invite Jesus to walk with us In his talk, Caceres Commission on Communications (CCCom) Director, Fr. Francis Tordilla, emphasized the role that media has in shaping society. “The Media has the capacity to effect change in society, depending on the angle, narrative and [voice] of the story,” he said. Because of this, Tordilla called on all media practitioners present to be “gatekeepers of the truth”. Taking inspiration from the talk of Maria Ressa, Head of Rappler, at the Jubilee World Day of Communications in January of this year, Tordilla spoke regarding the digital anatomic bomb that currently manipulates society and swings one’s opinion in favor of an alleged truth. Hence, to counteract this, Tordilla gave these points to ponder on: to collaborate and build trust, to speak the truth with moral clarity, to protect the vulnerable, and to embrace ‘ubuntu’. Tordilla also told participants to “invite Jesus to walk with [them]”, especially during the Via Crucis to be observed later in the day, in the same way that “we also walk with Jesus”. The talk was succeeded by the Conversation in the Spirit, led by Ms. Julma Narvadez, Chief Operating Officer of the Consuelo ‘Chito’ Madrigal Foundation -Bicol. Here I am, Lord In his homily at the eucharistic celebration that capped the annual spiritual gathering, Fr. Roy Regaspi reminded the participants to always speak the truth and “to be open to what the Lord is telling us”. In addition, he said “God guides us in our ministry or work”, exhorting that one should come to work predisposed to do the will of God, saying, “Here, I am Lord”. Regaspi also said that to bear witness to the Truth leads the way to Christ, which ultimately “gives life to what we practice and what we communicate -the Word of the Lord”. Regaspi was also joined by Fr. Francis Tordilla, Fr. Roy Raña and Fr. Conrad Flores, FFI as concelebrants. The said recollection was organized by the Caceres Commission on Communications in partnership with the KBP (Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas) Camarines Sur Chapter.

By Sem. Conan Martirez Photo courtesy of the Commission on Biblical Apostolate (COMBIBLIA) NAGA CITY — The Archdiocese of Caceres Commission on Biblical Apostolate (Caceres COMBIBLIA) inaugurated its series of district Bible Conferences last Sunday, March 9, at the Holy Rosary Major Seminary in Concepcion Pequeña, Naga City. The afternoon event marked the beginning of the program titled “Basahon an Biblia: Sarong Kapitulo Kada Aldaw.” Bible Apostles The Bible Conferences aim to gather and organize Bible ministers from various parishes and communities. Participants will take on the role of “Bible Apostles,” a term defined by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) as individuals commissioned to coordinate and initiate Bible programs within their respective communities. The Caceres COMBIBLIA, led by Archbishop Most Rev. Rex Andrew C. Alarcon, D.D., with Director Fr. Erwin Blasa and Administrative Assistant Sr. Maria Culaway, D.M., oversees the conduct of these Conferences. Magbasa asin Maglaom The theme “Magbasa asin Maglaom” encompasses the objective of encouraging participants to read the Bible and embody the virtues of hope that the Scriptures provide. The program includes activities such as Bible enthronement, talks, spiritual conversations, plenary sessions, and a closing liturgy, which may be the observance of the Holy Hour or a celebration of the Holy Mass. Program Proper The inaugural conference in the Central District had a total of 50 participants, comprising 42 lay persons—predominantly youth—and 8 seminarians -future “Bible Apostles”. Representing 12 parishes from Naga City, participants were from the Vicariates of St. John the Evangelist and Our Lady of Peñafrancia. The half-day event commenced with a Bible enthronement liturgy led by Fr. John Robert Bañal, the COMBIBLIA priest coordinator for the Central District. In his gospel exhortation, Fr. Bañal highlighted the importance of engaging with the Bible, stating, “Primarily because the Bible, the Sacred Scriptures, contains the divine revelation, God reveals Himself to us through the Word of the Scriptures.” Fr. Blasa discussed the significance of reading the Bible and the profound calling for participants to witness the virtue of hope through their devotion to the Scriptures. “We need to read the Bible, not only to know Christ, but to be educated in our faith, to strengthen our hope, and deepen our love. The Word of God makes us witnesses of hope in our daily life,” he emphasized. The session included testimonies from two participants: Sem. Frank Narra, who shared how his family bonded over reading the Bible during the pandemic, and Maggie Cu, a retired judge, who discussed how daily Bible readings have strengthened her faith during life’s challenges. Julma M. Narvadez, a member of the COMBIBLIA team, facilitated the Spiritual Conversation, encouraging participants to explore their personal devotion and discern how they could promote such devotion within their communities. Read the Bible, one Chapter a Day In the concluding activity, participants joined the Seminary community in observing the Holy Hour, which included the launch of the “Basahon an Biblia, Sarong Kapitulo kada Aldaw” Program. Fr. Blasa presided over the liturgy and during the exhortation emphasized the connection between devotion to the Word of God and devotion to the Eucharist. “Our reading of the Bible should lead us to a deeper relationship with God, to His Sacred Body and Blood.” Then Fr. Blasa strongly invited the participants, “Let us then find regular time each day to sit for a while and pray, open our Bible and meditate, one chapter a day.”