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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

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.