I feel deeply blessed to be among priests from different dioceses across Panay Island. We came together for basketball, yet what truly moves me is the grace of listening to their stories, asking questions, and witnessing their vocations.
What an unexpected and profound gift.
After 38 days away from the parish, I find myself immersed in many quiet “last” moments.
As I crossed into the province of Antique, I quietly told myself, “I am back.” In that simple homecoming, I felt a profound sense of peace and belonging.
More than a week has passed, and I’m still moving through this blend of anxiety, fear, and worry, strangely accompanied by a steady undercurrent of gratefulness.
I’ve come to realize that every next level carries something hard within it. Yet there’s quiet wisdom in that difficulty. It reminds me that true progress was never meant to be easy.
I’m not sure if this surge is entirely good, but it feels significant. Yesterday’s longest walk here in Tagaytay — with its cool air and open skies — seems part of the same stirring. This place is awakening something in me that Rome never quite did.
In just one month at the FIRE Program in Tagaytay, I’ve already written more than during my entire second semester at the RPM in Rome. The thought struck me today as I refilled my pen with fresh ink. There’s something quietly meaningful about it.
Grateful for the quiet companionship of these brother priests on the road today. The journey from Tagaytay to Imus and back, taken for family matters, felt lighter and more meaningful in their presence.
A simple errand for laundry soap led me back to the mall I used to visit at the start of “Chapter II” in my life.
The moment hit me with quiet nostalgia.
After last week’s assessment exams, we should focus not only on what is behind us and what lies ahead, but more importantly on the middle—the present moment. Awareness and acceptance are vital right now.
My little Antique family gathered for a proper farewell to one of our favorites.
Me? Been so busy I almost sent a carrier pigeon instead of showing up. Finally decided to reach out before they file a missing persons report. 😅
Hello again, world. Miss you weirdos.
No basketball game today—guess the universe saw my dirty laundry winning the rebound battle and called a timeout. Laundry duty it is. Time to dunk some socks in the washer! 🧺🏀
After a full week of intense basketball with our young, competitive crew, we finally triumphed in two games! 🏀🏆
Now I can finally clean my basketball shoes
We had a simple but meaningful celebration for my mom’s 75th birthday last night, sharing a meal at a place close to my heart. Truly grateful—what a blessing.
Day 3. I’m starting to feel better as I recover from the flu. Waking up at 7 AM has helped me settle into a rhythm that allows for proper rest. With 30 days still ahead of me, I’m beginning to see this time as a gift—an opportunity to slow down, heal, and be present. #bleesed
Today marks my 20th month as a parish priest. Tomorrow, with the Bishop’s permission, I’ll announce my new assignment. In two days, a month-long intensive preparation begins. Such is the life of a priest.