Fr. Cyril Villareal Appointed as New Bishop of Kalibo Diocese by Pope Leo XIV
A priest from the Archdiocese of Capiz has been selected to lead the Diocese of Kalibo as its new bishop. This significant appointment follows the decision of Pope Leo XIV, who named Fr. Cyril Villareal to succeed Bishop Jose Corazon Tala-oc, who retired from his position in June 2025.
Background and Education of the New Bishop
Born in March 1974, Fr. Cyril Villareal was ordained as a priest on May 25, 2001. His academic journey in religious studies is extensive and impressive. He pursued philosophy at St. Pius X Seminary in Roxas City and later studied theology at the prestigious University of Santo Tomas in Manila.
Villareal holds advanced degrees that underscore his deep commitment to theological education. He earned a master’s degree in higher religious studies and a licentiate in sacred theology from the UST Central Seminary. Additionally, he completed a master’s degree in theology from the University of Vienna in Austria, broadening his international perspective.
Previous Roles and Pastoral Experience
Before this appointment, Fr. Cyril Villareal accumulated rich pastoral and academic experience. From 2000 to 2004, he served as the assistant dean of Theology at the Sancta Maria Mater et Regina Seminarium in Roxas City, contributing to the formation of future priests.
His service extended internationally from 2005 to 2010, when he worked as the assistant chaplain of the Filipino Catholic Chaplaincy in the Archdiocese of Vienna. During this period, he also served as an assistant priest at the Parish of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Vienna, supporting the Filipino community abroad.
Most recently, prior to his elevation as bishop, Villareal has been actively serving as the parish priest of St. Thomas of Villanova Parish in Dao, Capiz. This role has kept him closely connected to the local faithful and prepared him for broader diocesan responsibilities.
The appointment marks a new chapter for the Diocese of Kalibo, with Fr. Cyril Villareal bringing a blend of local roots and international experience to his episcopal ministry.
