The Diocese of Cubao in Quezon City, Philippines, is preparing to welcome its new spiritual leader with the appointment of bishop-elect Fr. Elias Ayuban Jr., CMF.
Pope Francis officially named Fr. Ayuban as the successor to the Most Rev. Honesto F. Ongtioco, D.D., who has served as the diocese's first bishop since its establishment in 2003.
Fr. Ayuban, currently serving as the provincial superior of the Claretian missionaries in the Philippine Province, will step into this role as the diocese’s second bishop.
His leadership has extended across missions in Australia, Vietnam, and Myanmar, as part of the Claretians' expanding global mission.
At 56, Ayuban becomes only the second Filipino Claretian to be appointed bishop, following in the footsteps of Bishop Leo Dalmao, who currently serves as the shepherd of the Prelature of Isabela de Basilan.
The Claretians’ legacy in Basilan is notable, as their first prelate, the late Bishop José María Querejeta, was also a Claretian, though of Spanish descent.
Born in Parang, North Cotabato, Fr. Ayuban made his religious profession on May 5, 1991, and was ordained a priest on March 9, 1996.
His experience spans both pastoral and academic realms, having served as an official in the Vatican’s Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life.
He also holds a doctorate in canon law and has taught at the prestigious Claretianum in Rome. More recently, since 2022, he has served as co-chairperson of the Conference of Major Superiors in the Philippines (CMSP).
Bishop Ongtioco, who has guided the diocese for over two decades, expressed his deep gratitude and affection for the people of Cubao. “I humbly ask all the faithful of our diocese to extend a warm and wholehearted welcome to our new Bishop. Let us support him with our prayers and cooperation as he begins his pastoral ministry with us,” he said.
Reflecting on his tenure, he added, “It has been a blessing to journey with you as the first shepherd of this beloved diocese since its establishment 21 years ago. Let us entrust everything to the providence and guidance of the Lord as we journey into the future, full of hope and joy.”
Fr. Ayuban’s episcopal ordination and rite of canonical possession will take place at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral of Cubao on December 3, 2024, coinciding with the Feast of St. Francis Xavier, the Patron of Missionaries.
The Diocese of Cubao, which encompasses a large portion of Quezon City, has flourished since its creation in 2003.
It is home to numerous parishes and hundreds of religious congregations that serve both the spiritual and social needs of the community.
With the arrival of Bishop Ayuban, the faithful of the diocese are hopeful that his leadership will inspire new milestones in evangelization and service.
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