"I have called you friends." - John 15:15 

Inspired by the theme above, the 12th Philippine Conference on New Evangelization officially commences today with an enthronement of the image of Our Lady of Manaoag and the celebration of the Holy Eucharist presided by His Eminence Jose F. Advincula, D.D., Archbishop of Manila, at the Quadricentennial Pavilion of University of Sto. Tomas, España Blvd. Manila. In his homily, Cardinal Advincula recalled how PCNE has been fostering friendship since its conception, that led also to the formulation of the theme for this year's conference which was taken from a Waray Binisaya term word "Sangkay". He further enrich his homily with some points from the Gospel where Jesus has manifested himself through a miracle in the wedding at Cana. He encapsulated these important points applied in friendship in three Waray Binisaya words that describes the good qualities and relationships in a friendship: hinay-hinay, kanunay ngan buligay (gentleness, steadfastness and mutual sharing). He further added a point describing what a true friend is: “Ang totoong kaibigan ay marunong maghintay, dahil ang paghihintay ay pagmamahal din, gradualness is a language of love”

 After the mass, Rev. Fr. Louie R. Coronel, O.P., EHL Secretary-General of the University of Santo Tomas delivered his welcoming remarks. It was followed by the setting of perspective by Rev. Fr. Jason Laguerta, the PCNE Director. A Keynote Address on “I have called you friends”, The Call of Relational Conversion by H.E. Most Rev. Rex C. Ramirez, D.D., Bishop of Naval and a deepening activity concludes the morning session. After the lunch break, the Prayer Pathways: Encountering Jesus, our Sangkay –Spirituality of Friendship was conducted wherein each participant was able to spend meaningfully their afternoon in prayer. Following it H. Em. Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, D.D., the Pro-Prefect for the Section for First Evangelization and New Particular Churches of the Dicastery for Evangelization led his Heart-to-Heart session with a focus on the topic Friendship and Accompaniment were stories and experiences of the guests were deepened and shared. It was followed the by a Plenary Talk on “The Banquet of Friends: the Eucharist as the School of Relational Conversion” where the good Cardinal emphasized the importance of building a friendship and relationship with Jesus as we take part in the Eucharist where every part becomes an encounter and communion and venue with Him. The afternoon session concludes with Confessio Peccati et Laudis: Healing and Nurturing Relationships led by Very Rev. Fr. Filemon "Deng" I. dela Cruz Jr., O.P, Prior Provincial of the Dominican Province of the Philippines where everyone was able to spend a heartfelt and moving moment with the Lord in adoration. What a full and wonderful Day 1 for 5,000 strong attendees! 

The Day 2 of the conference started with the Laudato Si’: Prayer in Union with Creation led by Very Rev. Fr. Lino Gregorio Redoblado, OFM, the Minister Provincial of the Province of San Pedro Bautista – Philippines. After the prayer, a panel discussion on “Love one another”, Conversion of Relationships and the Civilization of Love in the Digital Age was conducted and was followed by concurrent sessions on “Greater Love” running in parallel streams covering the key themes of PCNE. A plenary talk and panel discussion entitled “Go and bear fruit that will remain” – Friends in Mission, Forming Missionary Disciples” by the Catholic Christian Outreach was held after the concurrent sessions. A synthesis then was made before the concluding Eucharistic Celebration presided over by His Excellency Most Rev. Charles John Brown, D.D., Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines. The Day 2 conclusion was made more meaningful and symbolic with the Commissioning rite wherein the rosaries distributed to the participants were blessed and exchanged to their partner/fellow participants and accompanied it with a prayer. 

The presence of the thousands of youth from across the countries and nation who actively engaged in the program and in different activities made the Day 3 of the conference more vibrant and exceptional! A Eucharistic Celebration presided by His Excellency Most Rev. Rufino “Jun” Sescon, D.D., Bishop of Balanga. After the mass, worship songs were sung and led by the Live Loud which engaged the young people, filling up the gym with a heartfelt songs of praise. A plenary talk of H. Em. Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, D.D. which was centered on the theme “I have called you friends” by Jesus in John 15:15. Cardinal Tagle emphasized some important points especially on identifying the one who calls us friends. “I have called you friends” Who is the I who calls us friend? Jesus! Si Hesus ang tumatawag sa atin na Kanyang kaibigan.” He said. After the talk, the Side Quest sessions were held wherein participants proceeded to their respective chosen sessions related to PCNE themes. It was followed then by Sangkay META (Mission, Evangelization, Testimony and Action) session and concluded with the Adoration and Benediction led by Rev. Fr. Eduardo Miguel “Migs” Ramirez where everyone was obviously struck by an intimate encounter with Jesus in the Holy Host. The Day 3 concluded with the closing celebration with the Feast Worship that drew everyone to singing and dancing with and for the Lord! 

 The 12th PCNE is not just an ordinary conference. It became a venue of concrete encounter with God through people across ages, nations, and activities that brought everyone together in communion with God, with the country and with the mission – where synodality was concretely lived out and passed on to younger generations. 

Written by: Wency Provido | Social Communications, Diocese of Imus

TANZA, CAVITE — Nagtipon-tipon ang mga deboto ng mga patron ng siyam na dambanang pang-diyosesis at pambansa sa Cavite para sa "Santuarios: The Grand Procession" kagabi, Hulyo 26, sa Diocesan Shrine of San Agustin and Parish of Santa Cruz.

Dinagsa ng daan-daang mga mananampalataya ang prusisyon bilang bahagi ng pagdiriwang ng ika-10 taon ng Pangdiyosesanong Dambana ni San Agustin. 

Kasama sa prusisyon at pagdiriwang ang mga mananampalataya at mga deboto mula sa Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Our Lady of Fatima sa Binakayan, Kawit; Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Saint Mary Magdalene sa Kawit; Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Nuestra Señora del Santissimo Rosario, Reina del Caracol, sa Rosario; at Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Nuestra Señora de Candelaria sa Silang, Diocesan Shrine and Cathedral-Parish of Our Lady of the Pillar sa Lungsod ng Imus; Diocesan Shrine of Nuestra Señora de la Soledad de Porta Vaga and Parish of San Roque sa Lungsod ng Cavite; National Shrine of Our Lady of La Salette sa Biga, Silang; at Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception sa Naic.
 
Hindi naman nagpahuli sa dulo ng prusisyon ang mga deboto at imahen ni San Agustin de Tanza, na mas kilala bilang si Tata Usteng.

Bago ang prusisyon, ipinagdiwang ang isang Banal na Misa sa pangunguna ni Rdo. P. Julius R. De Sagun, ang paring kalihim ng Association of Catholic Shrines and Pilgrimages of the Philippines, at mga kasamang pari.

Nagpasalamat si Padre De Sagun sa Diyos at sa lahat ng mga nakiisa sa pagtitipon, na aniya ay sumasalamin sa pagiging magkakapatid ng mga deboto sa pananampalataya.

"Pinagmamasdan ko po ang buong paligid. Punung-puno po tayo hanggang labas. Meron tayong mga tagapamagitan sa Diyos na maaari nating lapitan. At ano ang patunay nito? Kayo at ako na mga deboto ng iba't-ibang mga patron ng mga sambayanan at dambana sa Diyosesis ng Imus," ayon sa pari.

Nagpaalala rin si Padre De Sagun ukol sa kahalagahan ng sama-samang pagkilos upang maipakilala ang mga debosyon sa mga patron ng iba't-ibang simbahan sa Cavite.

"Dapat habang tumatagal, ang mga shrines, lalong dumarami ang mga tao. Nagtutulong-tulong tayong ipakilala ang mga patron. Tulong-tulong tayo dito sa buong Diyosesis para maipakita natin sa Diyos ang ating pagmamahal sa Kanyang mga hinirang na maging tagapamagitan natin sa langit," saad ni Padre De Sagun, na kura rektor din ng simbahan ng Binakayan, Kawit.

Idinedeklarang diocesan shrine ang isang simbahan sa bisa ng pagpapatibay ng lokal na obispo batay sa ilang pamantayan, tulad ng matinding debosyon ng mga mananampalataya sa kanilang patron, mga himalang nakaugnay dito, at ang kahalagahan ng debosyon sa lokal na kasaysayan at kultura.

Written by: Mark Gubagaras | Social Communications, Diocese of Imus

Muling nagtipon ang mga pari ng Diyosesis ng Imus kasama ang kanilang Obispo, Bishop Reynaldo G. Evangelista, DD, para sa kanilang Buwanang Banal na Pagsasanay, isang mahalagang pagkakataon upang mapalalim ang kanilang buhay espirituwal, mapagtibay ang pagkakapatiran bilang iisang presbyteryo, at mapagnilayan ang kanilang misyon bilang mga pastol ng Sambayanan ng Diyos.

Sinimulan ang banal na pagsasanay sa pamamagitan ng Holy Hour, kung saan sama-samang nanalangin at nagmuni-muni ang mga pari sa harap ng Panginoon sa Banal na Sakramento. Kasabay nito ay naging bukas ang pagkakataon para sa Sakramento ng Kumpisal, na nagbigay-daan sa bawat pari na maranasan ang biyaya ng pakikipagkasundo sa Diyos at ng espirituwal na pagpapanibago. Sa katahimikan ng panalangin at sa biyaya ng mga sakramento, muling isinuko ng bawat isa ang kanyang buhay at ministeryo sa Panginoon upang higit na maging tapat na lingkod at mabuting pastol ng Kanyang kawan.

Matapos ang banal na oras, sinundan ito ng pagninilay na pinangunahan ni Rev. Fr. Dennis Cagantas. Sa kanyang pagbabahagi, inanyayahan niya ang kaparian na pagnilayan ang kasalukuyang kalagayan ng ministeryong pastoral, ang mga katotohanan ng buhay bilang pari sa gitna ng nagbabagong panahon, ang mga hamon at pagsubok na kinahaharap sa paglilingkod sa mga parokya, at ang mga konkretong paraan upang higit pang maging mabisa at makabuluhan ang kanilang misyon sa Simbahan.

Naging mahalagang bahagi rin ng banal na pagsasanay ang bukas na pagbabahaginan ng mga pari. Sa diwa ng pagkakapatiran, malaya nilang naibahagi ang kanilang mga karanasan, kagalakan, suliranin, at mga natutuhan sa kani-kanilang ministeryo. Ang mga sandaling ito ng pakikinig at pagbabahagi ay nagpatibay sa kanilang pagkakaisa at nagpapaalala na ang bokasyon ng bawat pari ay isinasabuhay hindi lamang bilang indibiduwal na misyon kundi bilang sama-samang paglilingkod ng presbyteryo ng Diyosesis ng Imus.

Sa kanyang mensahe, binigyang-diin ni Bishop Reynaldo G. Evangelista, DD ang kahalagahan ng bukas na komunikasyon, pakikinig, at pagtitiwala sa isa’t isa. Hinimok niya ang kaparian na patuloy na maging bukas sa pagbabahagi ng kanilang mga karanasan at pinagdaraanan upang higit na mapalalim ang pag-uunawaan, mapatatag ang pagkakaisa, at maging mas mabunga ang kanilang sama-samang paglilingkod sa Diyosesis.

Nagsalo-salo rin ang kaparian sa pananghaliang inihanda ng La Salette Fathers, na nagsilbing pagkakataon upang higit pang mapalalim ang kanilang samahan bilang magkakapatid sa bokasyon.

Sa huling bahagi ng pagtitipon, nagsagawa ng talakayan hinggil sa “Isa Lang Dapat” Signature Campaign, isang adbokasiyang naglalayong isulong ang mabuting pamamahala at isabuhay ang mga pagpapahalagang nagtataguyod ng pananagutan at kabutihang panlahat. Naging pagkakataon ito upang pagnilayan ng kaparian ang mahalagang papel ng Simbahan sa paghubog ng budhi ng mamamayan at ang pakikibahagi nito sa pagtataguyod ng mga pagpapahalagang naaayon sa Ebanghelyo. Nagkaroon din ng pagkakataon ang mga pari na magbahagi ng kanilang mga pananaw at mungkahi kaugnay ng kampanya at ng iba pang napapanahong usaping may kaugnayan sa misyon ng Simbahan sa lipunan.

Sa pagtatapos ng Buwanang Banal na Pagsasanay, muling umuwi ang bawat pari na may panibagong lakas, mas malalim na pagninilay, at mas matibay na hangaring ipagpatuloy ang kanilang bokasyon bilang mga lingkod ni Kristo—mga pastol na hinuhubog ng panalangin, pinatitibay ng mga sakramento, pinagkakaisa ng pagkakapatiran, at buong pusong naglilingkod para sa kaluwalhatian ng Diyos at sa kabutihan ng Kanyang Sambayanan. 

Written by: Rev. Fr. Randy S. De Jesus | Priest Animator, Diocese of Imus

Tema: "Ang MBG nakikinig at naglalaang maglingkod sa Diyos at sa Simbahan."

Naganap noong ika-20 ng Hulyo 2026, ang pagdiriwang ng ika-32 Anibersaryo ng Mother Butler Guild ng ating Diyosesis sa Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church - Evo City, Kawit, Cavite. Dinaluhan ito ng mga kasapi ng Mother Butler Guild mula sa iba't ibang parokyang nasasakupan ng Diyosesis. Sinimulan ang pagdiriwang sa pamamagitan ng Panalangin ng mga Kristiyano sa Umaga (Lauds) at Banal na Oras sa pangunguna ng kanilang Spiritual Director, Rdo. Padre Alvin Chavez, na sinundan ng Karakol ng MBG Council at ng mga Pangulo ng samahan.

Sa kanyang inspirational talk, ibinahagi ni Amb. Henrietta T. De Villa ang kahalagahan ng pag-alala sa tatlong identidad ng isang MBG: Servant Disciple of Jesus Christ, Handmaids of the Eucharist, at Housekeeper of the Lord. Ibinahagi rin niya ang isang linyang minsang narinig niya sa homiliya ng isang pari: "Ang mga MBG ay atsay lamang, ngunit ang mga Mother Butlers, atsay nga, ngunit atsay ng Panginoon ng langit at lupa."

Bilang pagtatapos, pinangunahan ng Obispo ng Diyosesis ng Imus, Lub. Kgg. Reynaldo G. Evangelista, D.D., ang Banal na Misa kasama ang ilang kaparian ng Diyosesis. Binigyang-diin niya sa kanyang homiliya na, "Ang tunay na paglilingkod sa Diyos ay bunga ng malalim na pakikinig sa Kanya. God is calling you to serve, but what you're doing is a response to God's call."

Nawa ang natatanging biyaya ng pagdiriwang na ito ay magsilbing inspirasyon, paanyaya, at paalala sa bawat isa ng tunay na paglilingkod sa Diyos at sa Kanyang Simbahan.

Written by: Trisha Paulette Aron | Social Communications, Diocese of Imus

TO ALL PARISHIONERS, MINISTRIES, AND ECCLESIAL COMMUNITIES:

Please take notice that for reasons of historical clarity, administrative distinction, and local identity, our community shall be officially recognized and addressed as the DIOCESAN SHRINE OF SAN AGUSTIN AND PARISH OF STA. CRUZ, moving away from the English translation (Diocesan Shrine of St. Augustine and Parish of the Holy Cross).

This clarification is intended to formally differentiate our parish from:

1. The Holy Cross Parish in Noveleta.

2. Other parishes within the diocese dedicated to the patronage of St. Augustine.

By reverting to the traditional titles of San Agustin and Sta. Cruz, we preserve our distinct community identity while fostering clear communication across the diocese. All official documents, promotional materials, and organizational letterheads are to reflect this title moving forward.

Thank you for your cooperation and continued devotion!

#TataUsteng2026

#TanzaTownFiesta2026

#AugustineSeason2026

#AUGUSTINEshrine 

𝐌𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐚𝐲𝐚𝐧𝐠 𝐈𝐤𝐚-𝟒𝟎 𝐀𝐧𝐢𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐚𝐫𝐲𝐨 𝐧𝐠 𝐈𝐧𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐚𝐠𝐤𝐚𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐢 𝐁𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐩 𝐑𝐞𝐲!

Taglay ang taos-pusong pasasalamat sa Diyos, nakikiisa tayo sa pagdiriwang ng ika-40 Anibersaryo ng Pagkapari ng ating minamahal na Obispo 𝐑𝐞𝐲𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐝𝐨 𝐆. 𝐄𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐚, 𝐃.𝐃., 𝐎.𝐅.𝐒., Obispo ng Imus.

Sa loob ng apat na dekada, naging huwaran siya ng mapagkumbaba at tapat na paglilingkod bilang pari at pastol ng sambayanan ng Diyos. Tunay na nasasalamin sa kanyang buhay ang kanyang motto na 𝑴𝒊𝒕𝒊𝒔 𝒆𝒕 𝑯𝒖𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒊𝒔 𝑪𝒐𝒓𝒅𝒆 — isang pusong maamo at mapagpakumbaba.

Maraming salamat po, Bishop Rey, sa inyong mababang-loob na paglilingkod, paggabay, at pagmamahal sa sambayanan ng Diyosesis ng Imus.

BACOOR CITY - Noong Mayo 31, 2026, sa Dakilang Kapistahan ng Banal na Santatlo, ipinagdiwang din ng Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Parish sa Citihomes Subdivision, Brgy. Molino IV, ang kapistahan ng kanilang patrona, ang Mahal na Ina ng Banal na Puso ni Hesus (Our Lady of the Sacred Heart).

Pinangunahan ang Misa Mayor ng Lubhang na Kagalang-galang na si Archbishop Charles John Brown, Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines, sa kanyang makasaysayang unang pagbisita sa Lungsod ng Bacoor.

Sa temang "Kay Maria Deboto, Kay Kristo Patungo," binigyang-diin ng pagdiriwang na si Maria ang patuloy na umaakay sa mga mananampalataya patungo kay Kristo. Sa ilalim ng kanyang titulong Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, kinikilala siya bilang patrona at pag-asa ng mga nawawalan ng pag-asa, at bilang isang mapagmahal na ina na naglalapit sa mga tao sa puso ng kanyang Anak.

Sa kanyang homiliya, ipinaliwanag ni Archbishop Brown na tampok sa imahen ng Our Lady of the Sacred Heart ang Puso ni Hesus, na sumasagisag sa walang hanggang pag-ibig ng Diyos. Ang pag-ibig na ito ay ganap na nahahayag sa misteryo ng Banal na Santatlo. Dahil sa dakilang pag-ibig ng Ama sa sangkatauhan, ipinagkaloob Niya ang Kanyang bugtong na Anak para sa ating kaligtasan. Sa pamamagitan naman ng Mahal na Birheng Maria, nagkatawang-tao ang Salita ng Diyos upang manahan sa gitna natin.

Itinatag ang Our Lady of the Sacred Heart bilang isang Pastoral Center noong 2005 sa pangunguna ng noo'y Obispo ng Imus, si Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle, mula sa teritoryong sakop ng Sto. Niño de Molino Parish. Taong 2007, ng itinaas ito bilang isang Quasi-Parish, at noong 2009 ay naging ganap na Parokya. Naitalaga naman ng simbahan noong 2015 sa pangunguna ni Bishop Reynaldo G. Evangelista, Obispo ng Imus.

Ipinagdiriwang ng parokya ang kapistahan ng kanilang patrona tuwing huling Linggo ng buwan ng Mayo.

Isinulat ni: Edmund Zephaniah Rosero | MPK, Our Lady of Sacred Heart Parish - Molino, Bacoor

Isinagawa ang isang Flores de Mayo Conference sa pangunguna ng Ministry on Popular Religiosity and Devotion nitong Sabado, Mayo 16, sa Our Lady of the Pillar Seminary Gymnasium sa Buhay na Tubig, City of Imus, Cavite. Pinangunahan ito ng panauhing tagapagsalita na si G. Michael Delos Reyes.

Dinaluhan ito ng iba’t ibang kinatawan o delegates mula sa mga parokya ng ating Diyosesis.

Tinalakay sa pagpupulong ang kasaysayan ng buwan ng Mayo at ang iba’t ibang panahon na nararanasan sa bawat taon. Ipinaliwanag na ang buwan ng Mayo ang kauna-unahang pagdiriwang ng tagsibol at tag-init.

Ayon sa kasaysayan, kilala noon ang Santa Cruz de Mayo kung saan ang pinakapuso ng pamimintuho ay ang pagsamo para sa masaganang ani at paghingi ng pangangalaga sa mga bulaklak laban sa anumang pinsala upang mamunga nang sagana. Ipinaliwanag din na ang salitang “Sagala” ay nagmula sa salitang “Zagala” na nangangahulugang dalaga o dalagita.

Ipinabatid din ang kahalagahan at kasaysayan ng mga kabilang sa hanay ng mga sagala, gayundin ang mga simbolong kanilang taglay o dala. Isinama rin sa talakayan ang ilang mungkahing maaaring idagdag sa pagsasagawa ng Santacruzan, gaya ng mga instrumento ng Pasyon ni Hesukristo na maaaring dalhin ng mga sagala.

Ipinaliwanag din ng tagapagsalita ang kaibahan ng Santacruzan at Flores de Mayo. Sa Santacruzan, ang pangunahing tampok ay ang Banal na Krus at higit na binibigyang-pansin ang mga simbolong may kaugnayan sa pagpapakasakit ng Panginoong Hesukristo. Samantala, sa Flores de Mayo naman ay ang Mahal na Birheng Maria ang sentro ng debosyon. Binigyang-diin din na hindi maaaring paghaluin o pagsamahin ang dalawa sapagkat magkaiba ang pokus at diwa ng mga ito.

Sa bandang huli, ipinaalala rin ni Rdo. Padre Marcy Convento na isinasagawa ang ganitong uri ng mga pagpupulong upang maitama at mapalalim ang kaalaman tungkol sa mga aktibidad at tradisyong isinasagawa sa ating mga parokya na may kaugnayan sa debosyon at pananampalataya. Dagdag pa niya, hindi lahat ng matagal nang nakasanayan ay tama.

Bilang pangwakas, ipinahayag na mahalaga ang ganitong uri ng conferences at pagpupulong upang higit na mapalalim at mapagyaman ang kaalaman ng mga mananampalataya tungkol sa ating mga debosyon, tradisyon, at pananampalatayang Katoliko. Sa pamamagitan nito, mas napapanatili ang tamang diwa at mga alituntunin sa pagsasagawa ng mga tradisyong panrelihiyon, habang patuloy namang napayayaman at naipapasa ang mga ito sa susunod na salinlahi ng Simbahan.

Isinulat ni: Trisha Paulette Aron | Social Communications, Diocese of Imus

From listening to action, the third conference of Taon ng pakikinig was held, May 1, 2026, at the Sisters of Mary Girlstown in Silang Cavite. Guided by the theme “May Pakikisangkot,” the conference was attended by about 367 members of the Diocese of Imus, led by the Most Reverend Reynaldo G. Evanglista, D.D., Bishop of Imus, joined by the clergy, religious and lay members.

The conference began with a Prayer led by Rev. Fr. Ashpaul A. Castillo, followed by the giving of reminders and reflections on past conferences by the emcees. An audio-video presentation prepared by the Ministry of Research and Social Communication was shown to help everyone recall what transpired from the first two conferences The emcees also asked the participation of the audience by asking who among them have attended the past conferences by asking them to raise their hands.

The first talk on “The Socio-Cultural Landscape of Cavite” which was presented in-depth by the experts Dr. Jan Phillip Mallari and Dr. Emmanuel Calairo from De la Salle University - Dasmariñas. They explained how the industrialization and urbanization of Cavite began, describing the changes not only on the physical and infrastructural parts, but also the population and demography of the province which rapidly changed. They emphasized the effects of this rapid industrialization and urbanization such as population increase which also brought changes in the Filipino culture, holy week practices, gender roles and identity, decline of traditional culture, changes in the language spoken such as Chavacano, use of po and opo as well as pagmamano, family and marriage issues including morality, changes in traditional beliefs and customs, superstitions, health and medicinal plants, religious beliefs and faith. They also presented the challenges in preserving the heritage of the past in the context of Cavite, which paid a revisit to the Spanish legacies, the development of Nationalism, the establishment of the Republic, the period when we were under the American tutelage, the Japanese occupation, Martial Law touching as well the transformation and modernization of our culture and the new Philippines which they summed up as : “Surviving Cultural Traditions Thru the Centuries.” They further emphasized that these changes cannot simply be considered as bad or good change because the evil or goodness they bring depends only on the lenses or perspective of the community members.

The second talk on the “Status of Plastic Pollution in Cavite: The Case of Imus River and Manila Bay” which was discussed by Dr. Jose Aims Rosina and Dr. Johnny Ching focusing on the results of their study titled “Assessment of Plastic Pollution in the Province of Cavite.” The study covered the upstream part of the Imus River starting from the municipality of Silang, passing the cities of Dasmarinas down to the cities of Imus and Bacoor to the Kawit downstream .They presented the results of the study such as the high awareness of people on the negative effects of plastic pollution in the Imus River, the types of wastes and the amount of it found in the river during their study, its impact on the health and livelihood of the community, as well as the high positive outlook and good steps taken to save the river. Based on the results of the study, they recommended that environmental education be further intensified, especially among the youth, that all the rules or policies related to environmental protection be properly implemented, and that all sectors be encouraged to participate in this endeavor, such as all community members, Local Government Units (LGUs), Non-Government Units (NGOs), and the private sector. In the reflection and analysis part, they emphasized that we are now living in a modern era where everything is almost under the control of one person (Big Brother) – capitalists – who are trying to seize and change everything, may this modern lifestyle and concerns - garbage, , pollution, acid rain, ozone depletion, global warming, and biological warfare) not lead us to our own  graves. They also reminded everyone that these all rooted in a lack of conscience, selfishness and materialism and that the only solution is to invest in the new generation and the future, as Pope Francis has long taught in his encyclical “Laudatu Si’, On Care for Our Common Home”. The gathering ended with the sharing of answers to questions from the members of each Listening Circle and some reminders for the next schedule and conferences made by emcees.

The team has listened to the residents. The team has also listened to the river itself. The nature and the changes in our society have spoken, we have listened to the realities of the environment and even the realities of the Church, it’s time to get involved in steps that will restore the dignity of man and all of creation. As part of the new generation, may each one of us become a significant part of the solution and the positive change that we hope for our country and for the whole world.

Written by: Wency Provido | Social Communications, Diocese of Imus

“Go into the whole world and proclaim the Gospel to every creature.”

 -Mark 16:15 (NABRE)-

These words of Jesus are not only a command to His first disciples—they are also a mission entrusted to all of us today. Even as He ascended into heaven, Christ sent His followers into the world to share the Good News. And today, that “world” includes the digital space.

The Church continues to find ways to bring the Gospel to people wherever they are—even on our screens. Whether through social media, livestreams, podcasts, or online communities, the mission remains the same: to proclaim Christ.

But did you know that long before TikTok, Facebook, YouTube, or podcasts existed, the Church already recognized the power of communication?

During the Second Vatican Council, the Church was called to open its doors to the modern world through a process of “updating” (aggiornamento). This renewed vision led the Church to find new and clearer ways to communicate the Gospel.

One important fruit of this renewal is a document called Inter Mirifica, which means “Among the Wonderful.” Promulgated by Pope Paul VI on December 4, 1963, it is the Church’s first document entirely focused on social communications. Even though it was written long before the internet, its message remains relevant today.

Inter Mirifica teaches us that media and communication are gifts from God. When used well, they can help spread truth, educate minds, build unity, and share the Gospel. But the Church also reminds us that these same tools can be misused—to spread lies, hatred, division, and immorality.  Because of this, Pope Paul VI encouraged the Church to reflect deeply on the role of media. He called for an annual celebration dedicated to promoting awareness, prayer, and support for social communications.

This became what we now celebrate as the World Day of Social Communications, first observed in 1967 with the theme “The Church and Social Communication.”

In his message, Pope Paul VI recognized the growing influence of communication tools—from newspapers and radio to television and emerging technologies of his time. He believed that the Church must actively engage these platforms for evangelization, truth-telling, moral formation, and the promotion of unity and human dignity.

He also called on everyone—journalists, educators, parents, public leaders, and especially young people—to use media responsibly and ethically. For those working in media, he reminded them of their mission: to become instruments of truth, goodness, peace, and respect for human dignity.

Through the years, the celebration has continued to evolve. From traditional media like print, radio, and television, we have now entered a world of digital media—social networks, influencers, artificial intelligence, and beyond. Yet the message remains the same: to proclaim the truth with charity.

Today, the Church continues to guide us in facing modern challenges such as misinformation, digital responsibility, online behavior, and the ethical use of technology. The Church sees communication not just as a tool, but as a powerful force that shapes culture, relationships, public opinion, and even faith. That is why we are all called to use media with responsibility—and with purpose.

The World Day of Social Communications reminds us that every Catholic communicator—whether a professional journalist, a student, a volunteer, or a simple content creator—has a mission. We are not only called to inform. We are called to inspire.

In a world filled with noise and confusion, the Church invites us to become voices of truth, hope, and communion.

As Catholics present in the digital world, we are invited to become responsible digital missionaries—sharing only what is true, good, and beautiful. Because in every post, every message, and every story we share, we have the chance to proclaim Christ.

Written by: Flor Cagas | Social Communications, Diocese of Imus

 Sources: 

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/vatican-city/news/2022-10/vatican-ii-council-60th-anniversary-video-history-background.html

https://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/documents/vat-ii_decree_19631204_inter-mirifica_en.html

https://www.vatican.va/content/paul-vi/en/messages/communications/documents/hf_p-vi_mes_19670507_i-com-day.html

On January 24, 2026, during the feast day of St. Francis de Sales, the patron saint of journalists, Pope Leo released his message for the 6Oth World Communications Day which highlights the uniqueness and sanctity of human voices and faces. He also emphasized the preservation of human identity and dignity in the digital age, particularly on the rising use of artificial intelligence. 

At present, where is the Philippines in preserving the human voices and faces?

The Philippines, being one of the largest Catholic countries in the world, has responded actively and positively to Pope Leo's message for the 60th World Day for Social Communications titled, "Preserving Human Voices and Faces." The Philippines' response includes the following:

 INTENSIFIED CHURCH LEADERSHIP AND CATHOLIC MEDIA GROUPS AND DISCUSSIONS  

The Filipino bishops, diocesan communications offices, media group and Catholic schools have echoed Pope Leo's warning that technology should "serve the human person, not replace it." The different Catholic organizations in the country heightened the discussions and implementations of ethical use of AI, intensified campaigns against misinformation and fake news, responsible use of social media and preserving authentic human relationships online. The Philippines being regarded as among the highest social media user in the world now takes the center stage in modern evangelization with the presence of numerous digital evangelizing groups and pages, but must take serious steps in elevating the responsible and conscientious on the use of it.

 STRENGTHENING MEDIA LITERACY EFFORTS

The need for “Media and Artificial Intelligence Literacy” was emphasized by Pope Leo aiming to assist people critically understand algorithms and online manipulation. Here in the Philippines, Catholic schools administered by Diocesan priests and different religious congregations have been promoting digital citizenship, fact-checking, ethical journalism and responsible online communications and information dissemination. Which closely aligns with the Pope’s call for education and discernment.

 FILIPINO PARTICIPATION IN VATICAN COMMUNICATION

The Philippines has a visible global role in Church communications. Many Filipino Church leaders continue to influence international Catholic communication efforts such as Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle , the Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization who continue to influence Catholic communication efforts internationally and with San Pablo Bishop Marcelino Antonio Maralit Jr. as member of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Communication.

 PUBLIC CONCERN ABOUT AI AND MISINFORMATION

The concern of the Pope regarding AI-generated voices, fake images and manipulated content reflects issues which have already affected the Philippine society such as cyberbullying, deepfakes, online trolling and political disinformation. The Pope’s message have been connected to these local realities by some Filipino commentators and Catholic communicators, especially during public debates and election periods.

 FOCUS ON HUMAN-CENTERED COMMUNICATION

Pakikipagkapwa-tao (human solidarity and shared humanity) has long been emphasized by Filipino Catholic communities which resonates Pope Leo’s call to preserve the “face and voice” of every person. Filipino spirituality highly values compassion in communication, family connection, personal encounter and storytelling. 

Overall, the Philippines has long been responding to Pope Leo’s message not only as a religious teaching but also as an innate and normal way of life of connecting, valuing human relationships and encounter and continually promoting the truth amidst fast and robust technological advancements. 

Written by: Wency Provido | Social Communications, Diocese of Imus

𝐓𝐀𝐆𝐀𝐘𝐓𝐀𝐘 𝐂𝐈𝐓𝐘, 𝐂𝐀𝐕𝐈𝐓𝐄 — Isinagawa noong ika-09 ng Mayo 2026 sa Tahanan ng Mabuting Pastol Seminary ang Appropriation Session para sa mga Facilitators at Documentors ng Taon ng Pakikinig sa pangunguna ng Lay Formation Office ng Diyosesis ng Imus. Dinaluhan ito ng humigit-kumulang dalawampung tagapagpadaloy at tagapagtala na patuloy na nagsisilbi bilang katuwang ng ating diyosesis sa pakikinig sa tinig, kuwento, at karanasan ng sambayanan.

Sa kanyang mensahe, binigyang-diin ni Bb. AC Nuestro, Diocesan Lay Formation Office Animator, ang kahalagahan ng pagtahimik at pagninil

“𝙃𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙞 𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙣𝙮𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙙𝙚𝙙𝙞𝙠𝙖𝙨𝙮𝙤𝙣 𝙖𝙩 𝙨𝙖𝙠𝙧𝙞𝙥𝙞𝙨𝙮𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙖𝙡𝙖𝙮 𝙨𝙖 𝙗𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙩 𝙥𝙖𝙜𝙩𝙪𝙣𝙜𝙤 𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙮𝙤 𝙨𝙖 𝙞𝙗𝙖’𝙩 𝙞𝙗𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙤𝙠𝙮𝙖. 𝙈𝙖𝙨𝙮𝙖𝙙𝙤 𝙣𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙖𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙖𝙮 𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙪𝙣𝙙𝙤; 𝙢𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙝𝙞𝙡 𝙖𝙮 𝙥𝙖𝙣𝙖𝙝𝙤𝙣 𝙪𝙥𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙖𝙜𝙠𝙖𝙧𝙤𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙖𝙮𝙤 𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙖𝙡𝙞 𝙣𝙜 𝙠𝙖𝙩𝙖𝙝𝙞𝙢𝙞𝙠𝙖𝙣 𝙖𝙩 𝙥𝙖𝙜𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙡𝙖𝙮. 𝙃𝙪𝙬𝙖𝙜 𝙢𝙪𝙣𝙖 𝙩𝙖𝙮𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙖𝙜𝙨𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙖—𝙨𝙖𝙥𝙖𝙜𝙠𝙖𝙩 𝙨𝙖 𝙥𝙖𝙣𝙖𝙝𝙤𝙣 𝙣𝙜𝙖𝙮𝙤𝙣, 𝙣𝙖𝙥𝙖𝙠𝙖𝙧𝙖𝙢𝙞 𝙣𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙜 𝙣𝙖 𝙣𝙖𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙜. 𝘽𝙞𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙜𝙖 𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙠𝙤𝙙, 𝙢𝙖𝙝𝙖𝙡𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙪𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙪𝙣𝙖 𝙩𝙖𝙮𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙜 𝙖𝙩 𝙢𝙖𝙜𝙣𝙞𝙡𝙖𝙮.”

 𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙠𝙤𝙙, 𝙢𝙖𝙝𝙖𝙡𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙪𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙪𝙣𝙖 𝙩𝙖𝙮𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙜 𝙖𝙩 𝙢𝙖𝙜𝙣𝙞𝙡𝙖𝙮.”

Naging tampok din sa gawain ang pagbabahaginan ng karanasan at pagninilay ng mga kalahok hinggil sa kanilang misyon bilang mga tagapakinig ng sambayanan. Isa sa mga nagbahagi ang nagsabing,  “𝘼𝙣𝙜 𝙥𝙖𝙠𝙞𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙜 𝙖𝙮 𝙞𝙨𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙥𝙖𝙜𝙝𝙞𝙡𝙤𝙢, 𝙖𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙥𝙖𝙜𝙝𝙞𝙡𝙤𝙢 𝙖𝙮 𝙞𝙨𝙖𝙣𝙜 𝙥𝙖𝙜𝙢𝙞𝙢𝙞𝙨𝙮𝙤𝙣.”

Naging makahulugan at mapagnilay na pagtitipon ang nasabing sesyon dahil sa pagkakataong paghinto, pananahimik, at pagninilay sa misyon ng bawat isa bilang lingkod ng Simbahan. Sa gitna ng katahimikan at taimtim na pagbabahaginan, muling binalikan ng mga kalahok ang kabuluhan ng kanilang tungkulin bilang mga tagapagpadaloy at tagapagtala ng mga karanasan, hinaing, at pag-asa ng iba’t ibang Ka-indayog ng diyosesis.

Sa pamamagitan ng kanilang paglilingkod bilang Facilitators at Documentors, patuloy nilang isinasabuhay ang paanyaya ng Simbahan tungo sa isang mapagkalinga, nakikinig, at nagkakaisang pamayanan. Higit pa sa pagtatala ng mga tinig at salaysay ng sambayanan, ang kanilang misyon ay maging daluyan ng pag-asa, malasakit, at presensya ng Simbahan sa bawat nakikinig at nakikibahagi sa kuwento ng kapwa.

Sa pagtatapos ng gawain, baon ng bawat kalahok ang panibagong sigla, inspirasyon, at mas malalim na pag-unawa sa kahalagahan ng pakikinig bilang mahalagang bahagi ng kanilang pagmimisyon at paglilingkod sa Simbahan.

Isinulat ni: Binea Jeverly C. Antang | Social Communications, Diocese of Imus

 Pagtatalaga ng Simbahan at Altar ng Pangdiyosesanong Dambana ni San Agustin at Parokya ng Sta. Cruz 

Payak, tahimik, lubhang mataimtim, puno ng pasasalamat, puspos ng biyaya, at tigib ng pag-asa. Ganito nga ang namayani sa pinagpalang Araw ng Pagtatalaga ng Simbahan at Altar ng Pandiyosesanong Dambana ni San Agustin at Parokya ng Sta. Cruz.

Noong ika-3 ng Mayo 2026, kasabay ng Pagdiriwang ng ika-1700 Kapistahan ng Pagkakatagpo sa Banal ng Krus ng ating Panginoong Hesus, naganap ang panibagong kasaysayan sa ating pananampalataya, debosyon, at kultura. Pormal nang itinalaga ang iniayos at pinagandang Dambana ni San Agustin at Parokya ng Sta. Cruz. Bunga ng pinagsama-samang pagmamalasakitan, pagtutulungan, sakripisyo, at panalangin, naging matagumpay ang pagdiriwang.

Sa pangunguna ng Lub. Kgg. Reynaldo G. Evangelista, D.D., Obispo ng Imus, kasama ang mga Paring Anak ng Tanza, ang kadiliman sa pagsisimula ng Rito ay sadyang nagdala ng liwanag at panibagong pag-asa sa Bahay Dalanginang magiging daluyan ng marami pang biyaya mula sa mga Sakramento. Ito ang masidhing paalaala sa atin na sa ating pagdedebosyon kay Tata Usteng, tayo ay kanyang sinasamahan. Tayo ang Bayan ng Diyos, ang mga binyagan at batong buhay na bumubuo sa templong espiritwal at banal.

Higit sa pisikal na gusali at magandang mga ornamento, ang malalim na hiwaga ay sumasaatin sapagkat tayong mga mananampalataya ang itinatalaga sa Diyos upang maghayag ng Mabuting Balita at ng mga kahanga-hanga Niyang gawa kung saan nananahan ang pag-ibig at nabubuklod ang sambayanan.

- Vicvic Llego, miyembro ng Ministri sa Pananaliksik at Komunikasyon ng Diocesan Shrine of San Agustin de Tanza)