Tagaytay City, Philippines — The Tagaytay Cluster Seminaries, composed of St. Augustine Major Seminary, the Mission Society of the Philippines, San Pablo Theological House of Formation, and Tahanan ng Mabuting Pastol, successfully hosted Kapatiran 2026, the annual gathering of member seminaries of the Seminarians Network of the Philippines, from March 20 to 22, 2026, at the Divine Word Seminary in Tagaytay City.

The three-day gathering commenced on March 20 with the arrival and registration of participants, followed by a welcome program that formally opened the event and set the tone for fraternity and collaboration among seminarians.

On the second day, participants engaged in a series of spiritual, cultural, and formative activities. The day began with a karakol procession from the Rogationist College Gymnasium to St. John Marie Vianney Parish in Silang, Cavite, embodying the event’s theme “Ta’ Karakol Na!” as a vibrant expression of faith and communal devotion. This was followed by a conference delivered by Rev. Fr. James M. Andes, MAT, Vice Chancellor of the Diocese of Imus.

The highlight of the morning was the celebration of the Holy Eucharist at St. John Marie Vianney Parish, presided over by Most Rev. Reynaldo G. Evangelista, D.D., Bishop of Imus. In the afternoon, participants took part in a guided tour and community visits, fostering a deeper appreciation of local ecclesial contexts.

The day concluded with Solemn Vespers at the SVD Holy Spirit Chapel, presided over by Very Rev. Reginaldo V. Lavilla, MSP, followed by dinner, a cultural night, and socialization activities that showcased the rich traditions and talents of the participating seminaries.

On the final day, seminarians were sent to various pastoral areas for immersion activities aligned with the Diocesan Pastoral Priorities for Evangelization of the Diocese of Imus, including initiatives such as Makadiyos, Makatao, Makabuhay, Makakalikasan, and Makabayan. This was followed by a pastoral synthesis led by Mr. Julius D. Conjurado, Executive Secretary of DPPe, allowing participants to reflect on their experiences.

The event culminated in the celebration of the Holy Mass at the SVD Holy Spirit Chapel, presided over by Most Rev. Marcelino Antonio M. Maralit, Jr., D.D., Bishop of San Pablo. A closing program and fellowship meal concluded the gathering, sending participants forth renewed in their commitment to priestly formation and mission.

With the theme “Ta’ Karakol Na!”, Kapatiran 2026 highlighted the rich religious and cultural heritage of Cavite, particularly the tradition of the karakol as an expression of faith, devotion, and communal celebration.

Kapatiran 2026 stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of unity among seminarians and their shared commitment to formation and mission in service of the Church.

By: Sem. Emerson C. Maala