By Fr. Wilmer Joseph S. Tria Leticia Postigo, center, receives a plaque of recognition from Caceres Archbishop Rex Andrew C. Alarcon D.D. Beside her is her niece, Martina. Also in photo are CSRA administrators (from left to right) Bonifacio B, Borebor, III, VP for Administration and Finance; Fr. Wilmer Joseph S. Tria, College President and Parish Priest of St. Raphael the Archangel Parish; and Fr. Enrico Julian Paglinawan, VP for Academics. The air was filled with reverence and nostalgia on February 27, as Colegio de San Rafael Arcangel, former Pili Parochial School, celebrated its 31st Foundation Anniversary. A Eucharistic celebration, presided over by His Grace, Most Rev. Rex Andrew C. Alarcon, DD, Archbishop of Caceres, set the tone for the occasion. Amid the hymns and prayers, the spotlight shone on a remarkable individual whose dedication laid the foundations of education in the community: Leticia Enciso Postigo. Fondly known as Leting, her humble yet profound contribution as the first-ever teacher of the Parish, from 1964 to 1984, was honored with heartfelt recognition. Humble Beginnings Born on June 10, 1929, in a modest family in Pili, Camarines Sur, Leting is the second of nine children. Her father, an esteemed public school teacher, instilled in her an enduring passion for education. Despite financial constraints, Leting’s thirst for knowledge could not be stifled. Instead of pursuing College, she opted for self-study, absorbing the contents of the Philippine Journal of Education with determination and dedication, setting the stage for a life dedicated to teaching. A Singular Dedication In 1964, the call to educate reached her through Msgr. Bonifacio Boaquena, then Parish Priest. Leting answered with enthusiasm. Starting with 24 students only, she taught in a humble bamboo and nipa structure beside the old Easter Tower, or tuntunan, of the St. Rafael the Archangel Parish. At that time, Pili Parochial School was not yet formally organized. Her efforts bore fruit as her class grew to over 150 students. Adopting a meticulous approach, she taught the basics of reading, writing, arithmetic, and traditional folk dances, planting seeds of curiosity and discipline in young minds. Her pupil’s list reads like a who’s who, featuring future professionals and eight priests, including priests of the Archdiocese of Caceres. Among them are Fr. Domingo Florida, now Parish Priest of St. John the Evangelist Parish in Naga City, and the late Fr. Benito Velasco. Teaching from the Heart Without financial compensation, Leting’s motivation stemmed from a deep compassion for her students, many of whom had no other access to education. Her family supported her teaching endeavors, ensuring that the lack of financial resources was not an obstacle to her mission. Her dedication was rooted in the belief that her charges deserved a solid foundation for future learning, even when they could not always pay the nominal tuition fee. A Devoted Life Leting’s commitment extended beyond the classroom. Her unwavering faith in the Santo Niño, nurtured through a gift from Msgr. Boaquena, became a cornerstone of her life and teachings. Former students recall her profound devotion, as she frequently carried the image of the Santo Niño, symbolizing a spiritual guidance that influenced her pedagogy. A Life Well-Lived At 95, Leting radiates vitality and steadfast faith. Remarkably free from illness, she attributes her longevity to a simple diet and the power of hydration. Her calm demeanor testifies to a life lived with purpose, a life dedicated to service and anchored on faith and simplicity. As she contemplates her recognition, Leting expresses gratitude and promises continued prayers for the school’s success. Her life, a testament to the joys of teaching and learning, continues to inspire long after her official retirement. Leting’s story is not only an account of a profession, but of a legacy that will echo through generations —a reminder of how one’s dedication can make a profound impact on the world.

Photo courtesy of The Naga Metropolitan Cathedral. Dear brothers and sisters, We mark the beginning of Lent with the ashes and the sign of the cross. The ashes remind us of our mortality, of our sins, of our unworthiness, and of the weakness of human flesh. The ashes invite us to be humble and acknowledge our need for mercy and forgiveness. “For we are dust, and unto dust we shall return.” The cross reminds us of the suffering and the sacrifice of Jesus. The cross is a sign of great love which brings us forgiveness. There on the cross, Jesus offered Himself for our sakes. These two signs are signs of Hope. We turn to the Father. In our sinfulness, we cry for help, mercy and healing. And Lent affords us time, 40 days, to rise up from our fall and to allow ourselves to be redeemed by Jesus. And so, while Lent may evoke sentiments of sadness, gloom and suffering, but from the center of our Lenten observances springs Hope. For our God is a God of mercy, compassion and love. Let us take the opportunity of these 40 days of Lent to renew, to reconcile, to share, and to care; to purify oneself of sin and evil. The blood of Jesus washes our sins away and allows us to rise to new life. The cross of Jesus is His supreme solidarity with our human situation. There, in the apparent defeat of our Lord on the Cross, shone the glory of the Father, his unfailing love and mercy. Thus, Lent does not end in darkness and death, but leads us to Easter, the Resurrection of our Lord. “Repent and Believe the Gospel.” Brother and sisters, Lent is once again a call to prayer, fasting, almsgiving, and works of charity. This requires die unto ourselves, to give life to others, so that in the end we may find our new life in Christ. During these days of Lent, may we find joy in humility, freedom in reconciliation, strength in sacrifice and self-denial, grace in repentance, virtue in trials, hope despite setbacks, and divine assurance despite our unfaithfulness. May your Lenten observance be meaningful and fruitful.

By Evangeline de Guzman/Natalie Hazel Quimlat 100 participants attended the Leadership Training for the officers of the Caceres Archdiocesan Association of Parish Renewal Experience (PREX) Secretariat at the Immaculate Conception Parish in Naga City last February 22. Ms. Julma Narvadez, Chief Operating Officer of the Consuelo ‘Chito’ Madrigal Foundation -Bicol, spoke on the Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey. These habits include being proactive, beginning with the end in mind and learning how to prioritize. Teamwork is also one of the habits of highly effective people. In addition, Narvadez gave a talk on how to conduct Conversation in the Spirit as the local Church moves towards synodality. Conversation in the Spirit is a method of communal prayer and discernment, and is a driving force for collective action. Two critical habits to develop for an effective Conversation include active listening and speaking from the heart. Fr. Gerome Pelagio, Secretary of the Archbishop of Caceres, is currently the Spiritual Director of the Caceres Archdiocesan Association of Parish Renewal Experience (PREX) Secretariat. Couple Mr. and Mrs. Ernesto Lañada holds the Vice-President position for the said organization at the Diocesan level.

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.