Philippines: Bishop Occiano embarks on his mission as Shepherd of Virac with faith

Bishop Luisito Occiano of Virac has called for continued prayers as he begins his new mission as the shepherd of the Diocese of Virac in the province of Catanduanes, located in the Bicol Region of Luzon, Philippines.

He emphasized his commitment to fostering the faith of over 300,000 Catholics in the region. The prelate made this request after being installed at the “cathedra” (the seat of the diocese) at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral and Parish in Virac on June 26, 2024.

Drawing from his episcopal motto, “Cum Gaudio Praedicare,” which translates to “To Proclaim the Good News with Joy,” Bishop Occiano highlighted the importance of prayers for the success of his ministry.

“My episcopal ordination is a mission, a call to shepherd, to guide, and to proclaim the good news of Christ with unwavering faith and boundless joy. Inspired by my motto, to proclaim with joy, I am committed to fostering a spiritual life—a spirit of love, hope, and joy within my diocese. Together, we will work to uplift the marginalized, nurture the faith, and build a community that reflects the light and love of Christ,” Bishop Occiano said in an interview with Radio Veritas.

He also expressed his profound gratitude to the people of Catanduanes for their warm welcome as he took on his pastoral duties.

“I must express my deep appreciation for the welcome I have received. Your kindness and hospitality have made me feel immediately at home, and I am very eager to begin this journey with you,” he added.

Bishop Occiano admitted feeling both excitement and apprehension about his new mission but entrusted his responsibilities to the Lord with the help and guidance of the Blessed Virgin Mary. He assured the faithful that he would journey with them, listen to their needs, and focus on their spiritual development.

He emphasized that his ordination is not merely a new title or a position of authority but a profound grace that underscores God’s unmerited favor and compassion.

The ordination of Bishop Occiano took place at the Our Lady of Peñafrancia Minor Basilica and National Shrine in the pilgrim city of Naga, led by Caceres Archbishop Emeritus Rolando Tria Tirona, Caceres Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon, and Filipino Archbishop Tito Yllana, the current apostolic nuncio to Israel and Cyprus.

During the ceremony, Archbishop Alarcon underscored the bishop’s mission as a call to serve the community. “This is not a very easy task and may not be very pleasant. May we not forget this. May we not forget that this is a mission, rather than a promotion. It is a call to serve rather than be served,” said Archbishop Alarcon, reminding the newly ordained Bishop Occiano.

The event was attended by approximately 2,000 people, including former Vice President Atty. Leni Robredo, former Senator Franklin Drilon, and local officials of Naga. Fifteen bishops, including those from Bicolandia, Papal Nuncio to the Philippines Archbishop Charles John Brown, CBCP Vice President and Pasig Bishop Mylo Hubert Vergara, and US Diocese of San Diego Auxiliary Bishop Michael Pham, were present at the ordination.

Last February 29, Pope Francis appointed Bishop Occiano as the successor to the retired Bishop Manolo Delos Santos. Bishop Occiano will be supported in his pastoral mission by 72 priests and missionary religious men and women in the province.

Bishop Occiano's call for prayers reflects his understanding of the immense responsibilities that lie ahead. As he embarks on this new journey, his commitment to proclaiming the Good News with joy serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration for the faithful in the Diocese of Virac.