Archbishop Gilbert Garcera Assumes CBCP Presidency as New Leaders Take Office

On December 1, Archbishop Gilbert Garcera of Lipa commenced his term as president of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP). Concurrently, Archbishop Julius Tonel of Zamboanga started his two-year term as CBCP vice president, following his election during the 130th CBCP Plenary Assembly in July 2025.

Garcera and Tonel succeed Kalookan Bishop Cardinal Pablo David and Pasig Bishop Mylo Hubert Vergara, who have both concluded their respective second and final terms as CBCP president and vice president.

Additionally, Palo Archbishop John Du has taken office as the CBCP treasurer, with Monsignor Bernardo Pantin appointed as secretary general.

The CBCP Permanent Council also welcomed ten regional representatives who assumed their roles on the same day. These representatives include:

• Nueva Segovia Archbishop David William Antonio (North Luzon)
• Tarlac Bishop Roberto Mallari (Central Luzon)
• Cubao Bishop Elias Ayuban (Southwest Luzon)
• Gumaca Bishop Euginius Canete (Southeast Luzon)
• Daet Bishop Herman Abcede (South Luzon)
• San Jose de Antique Bishop Marvyn Maceda (West Visayas)
• Calbayog Bishop Isabelo Abarquez (East and Central Visayas)
• Butuan Bishop Cosme Almedilla (North Mindanao)
• Kidapawan Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo (East Mindanao)
• Ipil Bishop Glenn Corsiga (West Mindanao)

Their terms are set to span from December 1, 2025, through November 30, 2027, marking a new chapter for the leadership of the CBCP as they embark on their responsibilities.