The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines is embarking on a new chapter as its freshly elected leadership team assumes office today, marking the beginning of a two-year term that will guide the country's Catholic community through 2027.
New Leadership Takes the Helm
Archbishop Gilbert Garcera of Lipa officially begins his term as CBCP president on Monday, December 1, 2025, leading a team of 14 bishops and church officials who will serve until November 30, 2027. The spiritual leader has already expressed the weight of his new responsibility, asking for prayers and support from the faithful.
"Please pray for me because the cross given to me is very heavy. Let us pray together and help each other so that God's will may be done," Archbishop Garcera shared in a previous interview following his election. This heartfelt appeal reflects the significant challenges facing the Philippine Catholic Church in the coming years.
Complete Leadership Roster
The new CBCP leadership features a diverse group of church leaders from across the archipelago. Serving alongside Archbishop Garcera is Archbishop Julius Tonel of Zamboanga as vice president, ensuring representation from Mindanao in the conference's top leadership.
The administrative backbone of the organization includes Palo Archbishop John Du taking the crucial role of treasurer, while Msgr. Bernardo Pantin assumes the position of secretary general, responsible for the day-to-day operations of the bishops' conference.
Regional Representation Across Philippines
The CBCP Permanent Council welcomes ten regional representatives who will ensure voices from all parts of the country are heard:
- North Luzon: Nueva Segovia Archbishop David William Antonio
- Central Luzon: Tarlac Bishop Roberto Mallari
- Southwest Luzon: Cubao Bishop Elias Ayuban
- Southeast Luzon: Gumaca Bishop Euginius Canete
- South Luzon: Daet Bishop Herman Abcede
- West Visayas: San Jose de Antique Bishop Marvyn Maceda
- East and Central Visayas: Calbayog Bishop Isabelo Abarquez
- North Mindanao: Butuan Bishop Cosme Almedilla
- East Mindanao: Kidapawan Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo
- West Mindanao: Ipil Bishop Glenn Corsiga
This comprehensive regional representation ensures that the diverse needs and concerns of Catholic communities throughout the Philippines will be addressed during the new leadership's term.
The incoming bishops face numerous challenges and opportunities as they begin their service, including addressing social issues, strengthening faith communities, and guiding the Catholic Church in the Philippines through a period of significant global change. Their leadership comes at a crucial time for the nation's religious landscape.
