Caceres Media Practitioners Gather for Lenten Reflection on Synodal Mission

By Jonnah Abellano

Amidst the grind of deadlines and digital noise, media practitioners of the Archdiocese of Caceres hit the "pause" button on March 28, 2026, gathering at the Doña Jamora Hall of the Villa Caceres Hotel for a Lenten Recollection.

The Caceres Commission on Communications (CCCom) organized the event as a spiritual pitstop for those usually tasked with telling the stories of others. Fr. Francis Tordilla, Director of CCCom, opened the afternoon by highlighting the irony of the profession.

"Most of the time, we announce, we write, we disseminate information. But at least once, we have time together this time to listen," Fr. Tordilla remarked.

He challenged the attendees to reflect on their influence, noting that in an era of deep social division, the media holds a unique "multiplier effect." He emphasized that journalists and communicators possess the power to either darken the social landscape or bring light to it, depending on how they frame their narratives within the community.

In his talk, Most Rev. Rex Andrew C. Alarcon, DD, Archbishop of Caceres, urged the faithful to embrace the theme of Synodality during his keynote address. Drawing from the global Synod on Synodality initiated by Pope Francis, he translated complex theological concepts into locally relatable expressions: “Sana All” and “Walang Iwanan” (No one left behind).

Archbishop Alarcon framed the Synod as a “call to conversion,” emphasizing that it goes beyond personal transformation. He said the Church must rethink how it operates and engages with the modern world, fostering genuine participation among the faithful. He also highlighted the three pillars of a synodal Church: Communion, Participation, and Mission, as essential guides for building a Church that walks together with its people.

The core of the discussion was encapsulated in the Bicolano phrase: "Gabos Kaayon, Gabos may Gibuhon.” This local mantra serves as a reminder of "co-responsibility," suggesting that the mission of the Church and the pursuit of truth are not the sole burdens of the clergy, but a shared duty with the laity.

Reflecting on this shared responsibility, content creator and CCCom volunteer Carol Falabi, known as Lakwatserang Nagueña, noted the humility required in this digital mission. "The truth is, we are not always perfect in how we tell stories. We can unintentionally divide, overlook, or miss the deeper truth," Falabi shared. "The media has a way of multiplying whatever we carry within us. And so we return to this moment, not as experts, but as learners… seeking the grace to communicate with truth, compassion, and responsibility."

For Falabi, the synodal journey is a call to use digital platforms for service rather than ego. "Journeying as a Synodal Church, we are called to grow in communion, participation, and mission. And to use our voices not to elevate ourselves, but to serve a greater purpose."

Archbishop Alarcon concluded with the stirring prayer, "Disturb us, Lord," a plea for divine intervention to shake the participants out of complacency and drive them toward more meaningful and courageous storytelling.

As the Lenten season draws to a close, the event left the "storytellers of Caceres" with a renewed sense of purpose: to ensure that in the process of telling stories, they remain active participants in the journey of walking together toward a more united community.