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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.”

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.