Diocese of Padre Burgos

Completion Rites
Commencement Exercises

Saint James College of Padre Burgos, SLI

👏❤️🥇🧑‍🎓

Happy Birthday Padre Paul Patolin !
🙏🙏🙏

Nerding it up for a brighter future of the Diocese!

Thanks to the humble but accommodating Mission of Christ the Lord of Harvest in Brgy. Kinachawa, San Ricardo, Southern Leyte for hosting the regular Diocesan Council meeting.🙏💪❤️

🙏

🙏❤️🕊️

ACTS 2:1-4

"When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them."

A blessed 26th Anniversary
Parish of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Sto. Rosario, Padre Burgos, Southern Leyte

❤️❤️❤️

"Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails."
(Proverbs 19:21)

We are filled with sorrow upon hearing the news of the unexpected passing of our brother priest, Rev. Fr. Eugene M. Atibula from the Diocese of Biliran and Leyte. Our hearts are heavy as we pray for his soul to find eternal rest in God's paradise. 🙏

Rev. Eugene was an active YIFI member in Poblacion, Almeria, Biliran. He joined the Postulancy Program way back 2008 at the Cathedral of Saint James the Apostle in Padre Burgos. In 2010, he completed his Associate course in Saint James College of Padre Burgos and decided to enter the seminary along with others who aspired for priesthood. He graduated from Saint Paul's Theological Seminary in 2014, diaconated on August 28 in the same year, and ordained priest a year after. He faithfully served in the Diocese of Biliran and Leyte for 9 years with his final assignment in the Parish of the Immaculate Conception in Canlubag, Baybay City, Leyte until his death.

Rest in peace, Padre!🙏

A preacher's reminder to our ordained ministers in his homily during the Opening Mass of the Clergy Meeting held at the Parish of the Holy Cross, Lungsodaan, Padre Burgos, Southern Leyte.

Lengthy but fruitful discussions among the clergymen during the Clericus filled the church of the Parish of the Holy Cross in Lungsodaan, Padre Burgos, Southern Leyte.

The gathering was commenced by a Holy Mass. The session was called to order at around 9:30 in the morning and adjourned at 8:00 in the evening.

Such an enlightening journey!

Three aspirants of the Diocese of Padre Burgos are undergoing Entrance Examinations for Saint Paul's Theological Seminary currently conducted at the Cathedral office, with Rev. Fr. Ramonito Deza, Jr. as proctor.

Happy birthday Deacon Atan! 🎉❤️

Hapit na ang Summer Camp! Wooh!

Unsay inyong mga experience sa Summer Camp nga dili ninyo makalimtan? ⛺🌞🙏

Puno ang solusyon!

𝗣𝗨𝗡𝗢 𝗮𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗢𝗟𝗨𝗦𝗬𝗢𝗡! 🌱🌳

Want to be part of the solution? Email us at [email protected] or visit our website pcepsdi.org.ph and let's make a sustainable future! 💚

No to Red-tagging!

𝗜𝗴𝗹𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗮 𝗙𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗮 𝗜𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗽𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗲
𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗹 𝗼𝗳 𝗕𝗶𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗽𝘀

𝗔 𝗣𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗲 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘁’𝘀 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝗱-𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴

“𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘓𝘰𝘳𝘥 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘳𝘦𝘧𝘶𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘰𝘱𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘦𝘥, 𝘢 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘨𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘦." (𝘗𝘴𝘢𝘭𝘮9:9)

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

We, the Supreme Council of Bishops, write to you today to celebrate a significant moment in our nation's journey towards justice and peace. The Supreme Court has issued a landmark decision defining red-tagging as a threat to an individual's constitutional rights. This ruling offers recognition to the perseverance of those who have courageously opposed the injustice of red-tagging and a significant victory for human rights in our nation.

We applaud the Supreme Court's affirmation that red-tagging, vilification, and guilt by association are morally wrong and legally actionable. For too long, red-tagging has been used to intimidate, harass, and harm individuals exercising their rights to freedom of expression and association. This practice has affected clergy members, including bishops and priests of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI), as well as our church workers, and has criminalized our ministry to marginalized communities.

While we celebrate this ruling, we recognize the need for continued vigilance against red-tagging. We echo the call for accountability and for the abolition of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC) and the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, as they perpetuate red-tagging and human rights violations. It is imperative to dismantle any legal and institutional structures that disrespect human rights and undermine people's freedoms, as these weaken the democratic fabric of our society.

We also strongly call on President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to heed the Supreme Court's ruling and take concrete actions to end red-tagging while upholding the constitutional rights of all individuals. This is not just a legal obligation; it is also a crucial test of his administration's sincerity in promoting human rights and justice. He must embrace the moral imperative of this ruling to achieve genuine peace and social equality in our nation.

As we reflect on this momentous decision, let us remember the words of the Psalmist, "The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble." Just as God protects the persecuted and oppressed, we should also be a refuge for others, standing against injustice and standing in solidarity with the distressed and those deprived of their rights. mLet us remain steadfast in seeking justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with our God toward a society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

Brothers and sisters, let us continue to pray for our nation and our people, and remain steadfast in our commitment to building a Philippine society where all are treated with dignity. May God’s Spirit continue to lead us in the journey towards justice and peace, guiding our hearts and actions. Together, let us work hand in hand to create a nation where every individual's rights are respected and protected.

May the grace and peace of God be with you all.

Yours in Christ,

𝐑𝐭. 𝐑𝐞𝐯. 𝐉𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐨 𝐂𝐫𝐮𝐳
𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐨𝐧
𝐒𝐮𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐦𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐥 𝐨𝐟 𝐁𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐩𝐬

𝐌𝐨𝐬𝐭 𝐑𝐞𝐯. 𝐉𝐨𝐞𝐥 𝐏𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐬
𝐎𝐛𝐢𝐬𝐩𝐨 𝐌𝐚𝐱𝐢𝐦𝐨
𝐈𝐠𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐚 𝐅𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐚 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐩𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞

May 9, 2024

Today, May 9, 2024, Thursday, at 10:40 in the morning at Eagle's Hotel, San Jose de Buenavista, Antique, the Supreme Council of Bishops confirmed the application of the Diocese of Padre Burgos for the elevation of the Mission of Christ the Lord of Wisdom, Tangkaan, Padre Burgos, Southern Leyte into a full-fledged parish of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente, with the Chapel of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Core Shelter, Sta. Sofia, Padre Burgos as its lone outstation.

Congratulations to the new Parish of Christ the Lord of Wisdom! Congratulations Diocese of Padre Burgos! Padayon IFI Pro Deo et Patria!

Padayon IFI Diocese of Padre Burgos sa kalambuan!!!

Still, we need to plant more trees.
🙏🌳🌳🌳🙏

🌳

ADDRESSING THE URGENT ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN: STATEMENT OF THE 8th ANNUAL DIOCESAN CONVENTION OF THE DIOCESE OF PADRE BURGOS

We, the 140 delegates to the 8th Annual Diocesan Convention held at the Parish of Christ the Provider, Kikilo, Abuyog, Leyte on April 29-May 1, 2024, express our profound concern about the pressing issue on environmental degradation that impact the well-being of the people. We uphold that the Holy Scriptures teach us that we are stewards of God’s creation – that He created the Earth and entrusted it to our care. In this we are reminded of our sacred responsibility as stewards to “tend and keep” the garden that has been entrusted to us. We believe that as baptized Christians, we are enjoined to direct our attention to stand against environmental destruction and to commit ourselves to witnessing and serving in a manner that promotes the integrity of God’s creation.

It is crucial that we acknowledge the pressing environmental concerns that our world faces today, cognizant of the far-reaching and adverse effects of climate change that pose significant threats to the sustainability of natural resources, livelihoods of communities, the stability of economies and the overall quality of life for present and future generations. The earth is calling out our attention and urging us to take action and preserve its beauty and resources, and we cannot turn a blind eye to the challenges that our environment is now facing. Hence, we are asking the people to take this concern into great consideration because these problems not only affect the physical welfare of our planet but also impact the lives of countless individuals and communities, especially the most vulnerable members in the society.

The pressing effects of climate change are evident in the intense heat that we are experiencing today and the heavy rainfall during rainy and monsoon seasons which worsen our scenario with disaster events such as flash floods, strangely violent typhoons, soil erosion, destructive landslides, alarming pollution, the depletion of natural resources and the destruction of ecosystems from ridge to reef that affect not only the biodiversity of our environment but more so the lives of our people. These are also among the most common repercussions of environmental exploitation, from which the horrors of their harsh consequences human beings ourselves are now suffering. As mentioned, one of the fallouts of human environmental abuses that we currently experience is the rising heat indexes in many regions of our country which has become a significant concern due to its potential impact on the lives of many individuals. Since the onset of dry season, we come across with terrifying news almost everyday that people in many areas of our country are suffering from the high heat indexes that entail our government to closely monitor the daily local conditions and find remedies to address this pressing environmental issue. In our local context, we experience water insufficiency due to the draining of its sources that to some extent are alarming in various parts of our province, exacerbated by the prolonged power outages due to potential physical damages on power grid properties caused by unwanted solar heat, and the individual physiological dangers it brings to us.

With all these aftermaths occurring, we rather find a compelling impetus to wholeheartedly embrace and fulfill our mission “to strive to safeguard the integrity of creation and sustain and renew the life of the earth.” We, as a Church, are called to be agents of change and advocates for ecological justice. We therefore set forth our commitment to fostering the wholeness of God’s creation by tailoring sustainable solutions and promoting environmental awareness within our parishes, communities and beyond, hence, extending our efforts to a broader scope.

As a testament of our earnestness to this call, the 8th Annual Diocesan Convention officially included in the agenda the plan to collaborate with related government agencies asking for their assistance in the pursuit of materializing reforestation through synchronized tree planting activities to be spearheaded by the Diocesan Committee on Social Concerns. We also commit ourselves to participate in theological discussions and talks on the value of nature, reminding ourselves that it is for the good intentions that God entrusted it to us by integrating environmental ethics and principles into our inputs, workshops, liturgies, Sunday School activities and other educational programs in the church, emphasizing the responsibility to care for God’s creation as our moral imperative. It is vital for us to disseminate information through the use of social media platforms that enables people to gain in-depth understanding of the importance of safeguarding the environment, our goal of which is to educate and empower the people to be responsible stewards of His creation. As an expected outcome, we see how relevant and vibrant our Church would become when we actively participate in environmental advocacies and support organizations that initiate programs and activities that address ecological issues and combat environmental degradation. It is equally crucial for us to collaborate with other churches and faith-based organizations, community groups and environmental institutions to collectively address environmental challenges in order to amplify the impact of partnership and create a broader movement of environmental change.

While we initiate sustainable solutions in responding to ecological uneasiness, we also voice our deep concern regarding the approach taken by the present administration in addressing the issues on climate change. Legislations are developed and initiatives crafted for economic growth but such national agenda often regrettably favor foreign investment to the detriment of environmental preservation in the country, posing a serious threat to the integrity of our natural surroundings. The government appears to be prioritizing profit-motivated endeavors for large multi-national firms under the pretext of national and local economic progress and implement programs that typically benefit the few rich over the well-being of the marginalized, impoverished majority and the poor communities.

We therefore urge the government leaders to give due attention to take action, address the urgent need for environmental protection and take heed to the pleas of the people in mitigating the harm caused by environmental crisis, exacerbated by prioritizing personal interests rather than the interest of the masses. We include in our petitions that God may enlighten those who are in power and authority, that they may be helped by the divine influence in preventing the vice of apathy, and that they may not neglect to work for the ecological justice and to serve earnestly for the welfare of all people.

We are confident that in all our efforts, we collectively contribute to a more sustainable and just future, allowing us to live in harmony with the natural world God has entrusted to our care, as it goes without saying that our humanity is knitted with the natural world, for our well-being and redemption are intertwined with the restoration and healing of God’s creation. Saint Paul says in Romans 8:19-22, “The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed. For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bo***ge to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God.” Thus, we see in this passage the inherent worth of creation and its call for a shift in our perspective, away from exploitation of God’s bounty, towards a mentality of responsible preservation. We embrace our role as stewards of the Earth insomuch as God calls for our respect, nurture and responsible management of His magnificent creation, that we may become active participants in the mission of God that leads us to salvation.

--------------

Presented by the Committee on Statement and adopted during the last session of the 8th Annual Diocesan Convention of the Diocese of Padre Burgos on May 1, 2024.


REV. FR. JEROME M. OLIVA
Chairman, Committee on Statement


Attested:

RT. REV. ARLY M. BALILI
Bishop, Diocese of Padre Burgos

LIVING-OUT THE LEGACY OF BISHOP GREGORIO AGLIPAY

On May 5, 1860, Gregorio Aglipay was born in Batac, Ilocos Norte, marking the beginning of a life dedicated to the fight for Philippine national liberation and religious reformation. His early years, shaped by the harsh realities of colonial life, ignited a passion for justice and freedom that would define his legacy.

Ordained as a Roman Catholic priest in 1889, Aglipay's path took a different turn as he joined the revolutionary movement against Spanish rule. His efforts to Filipinize the church led to his excommunication from the Roman Catholic Church.

In 1902, Aglipay was elected Obispo Maximo of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente, a Church independent of foreign control, symbolizing the desire for both national and religious independence.

Throughout the American colonial period, Aglipay continued to advocate for Philippine sovereignty and the rights of the Filipino people. His efforts were part of a larger movement for independence, and through his leadership, the IFI became a symbol of Filipino nationalism and independence.

Today, the Philippines faces challenges that echo the struggles of Aglipay's time. Sovereignty is under threat by increasing US intervention and continuing Chinese aggression. Human rights violations persist, with extrajudicial killings, attacks on activists, and a shrinking space for dissent. Advocates for justice and peace continue to face vilification and threats, with the government labeling them as enemies of the state.

Furthermore, poverty and inequality continue to plague the nation, with many Filipinos struggling to meet their basic needs. Our democratic institutions are under threat by authoritarian tendencies and the erosion of democratic norms.

As we commemorate Gregorio Aglipay's birthday, we are reminded of his unwavering commitment to justice, independence, and the welfare of the Filipino people. His life serves as a source of inspiration to continue the fight for a better Philippines, where sovereignty is respected, human rights are upheld, and peace and prosperity prevail.

Let us draw strength from Aglipay's life, knowing that the fight for a better Philippines is a fight worth pursuing.

May 5, 2024
2nd Parish Anniversary
Parish of the Holy Cross
Lungsodaan, Padre Burgos, Southern Leyte
🙏❤️💪

📸: Here Telen

In frame:

Rt. Rev. Victor M. Palero, Bishop of the Diocese of Biliran and Leyte
Rt. Rev. Arly M. Balili, Bishop of the Diocese of Padre Burgos
Rt. Rev. Warner C. Bulacan, newly consecrated Bishop of the Diocese of Bohol
Rt. Rev. Allan C. Caparro, Bishop of the Diocese of Negros Oriental and Siquijor

All of whom were clergymen of the then Diocese of BILLESA under the leadership of the late Rt. Rev. Dr. Vic A. Esclamado.

Photo taken after the ceremony of the consecration and installation of the Rt. Rev. Warner C. Bulacan as Diocesan Bishop of Bohol, at the Pro-Cathedral Church of Saint Joseph, Poblacion, Candijay, Bohol on May 5, 2024.

Ctto. Yifi Holy Trinity, Jhun Rosellas & Jan Renz Valdes

Earlier today, the First Holy Mass was celebrated at the Chapel of Christ the Lord of Harvest, Brgy. Hitawos, Bontoc, Southern Leyte, presided by Rev. Fr. Marlito Evasitas and assisted by the Parish Rector of the Parish of the Good Shepherd, Rev. Dcn. William Luzaran, Jr. The sacrament of Baptism was also officiated right after the Mass.

To God be all the glory!🙏❤️

Pamalandong sa Pangilin sa Balaang Krus
Mayo 3, 2024

"True to our historical heritage and our commitment to social justice, let us remain steadfast in our support for Filipino workers, farmers, and jeepney drivers. May God grant us the courage and strength to pursue social justice, standing in solidarity with them and with other marginalized communities."

STANDING IN SOLIDARITY FOR WORKERS' RIGHTS AND DIGNITY

“The wages you failed to pay the workers who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty." (James 5:4, NIV)

Pastoral Letter of the Obispo Maximo on International Labor Day 2024

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has called us to serve one another and to stand for justice for all.

As we mark International Labor Day, the Iglesia Filipina Independiente stands unwaveringly with the Filipino workers, recognizing their indispensable role in our society and the systemic challenges they confront, and supporting their struggle in the broader context of exploitation and marginalization within the current economic system and political dispensation.

In honoring the invaluable contributions of our workers, we reaffirm our commitment to advocate for their rights and dignity. The prevailing neoliberal economic framework in the Philippines has institutionalized the dehumanization of workers and commodification of labor, depriving them of their fundamental rights.

This reality is starkly evident in the plight of jeepney drivers and farm workers, who are disproportionately impacted by the government’s modernization plans and the devastating effects of climate change.

We urge President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and his administration to swiftly implement alternative solutions to support jeepney drivers' livelihoods and provide assistance to peasants and farm workers affected by El Niño. Addressing the root causes of inequality and injustice, recognizing the inherent worth of workers, and safeguarding their rights are critical measures that must be taken without delay.

Furthermore, we vehemently oppose the proposed Charter Change, which threatens our nation's sovereignty and economic stability, especially impacting workers with utmost severity. Allowing foreign ownership of vital industries would only intensify exploitation, marginalization, and inequality.

James 5:4 reminds us that God hears the cries of oppressed workers. It is our solemn duty to stand up against injustices and to work towards a society where the rights and dignity of all workers are respected and upheld. The government's callous disregard for the plight of these essential workers is an affront to justice and must be vehemently condemned.

As members of the IFI, we advocate for structural changes that prioritize human dignity and the common good over profit, ensuring that the welfare of workers are safeguarded. Our history is intertwined with Philippine unionism, and it reminds us of our sacred duty to stand with workers in their struggle for human dignity and the integrity of human labor.

True to our historical heritage and our commitment to social justice, let us remain steadfast in our support for Filipino workers, farmers, and jeepney drivers. May God grant us the courage and strength to pursue social justice, standing in solidarity with them and with other marginalized communities.

In service and solidarity,

The Most Rev Joel Porlares
Obispo Maximo

May 1, 2024