THE FIRST CHAPTER OF THE PHILIPPINE GENERAL COMMISSARIAT

After the Canonical Erection of the General Commissariat of Philippine Carmel on July 16,
2004, came the First Chapter of the General Commissariat held on February 15 to18, 2005 at the
Titus Brandsma Center, Quezon City with 25 Gremiales (Chapter delegates from the Philippines
and the General Curia), 2 guests from the Dutch province and 21 observers- participants with
passive voice.

The first day was convened as the “Day with the Lord”. A talk was shared by Fr. Domingo
Moraleda, CMF, the director of the Institute of Consecrated Life in Asia (ICLA) on “The
Challenges of Consecrated Life in Asia Today.” Later that day, a Liturgy of Silence on Icons was
collectively observed by Chapter members.

The elected members of the Chapter Steering Committee were: Frs. Christian Buenafe, Artemio
Jusayan, Sirenio Jaranilla and Bro. Carlito Ranoco.

On the second day, the Prior General, Fr. Joseph Chalmers, O. Carm presided at the opening
eucharistic celebration while Fr. Anthony Scerri, O.Carm. preached on the Parable of the Sower.

Fr. Joseph Chalmers, O. Carm formally opened, presided and addressed the Chapter through his
message entitled “Carmelite- A light in the Darkness”. A report on the State of the Commissariat
was presented by the outgoing Commissary General, Fr. Antonio dela Cruz, O. Carm.
Afterwards, the Prior of the Chapter, Fr. Sirenio Jaranilla, O. Carm welcomed everyone and
presented the 3-day flow of schedule, some instructions and introduced the secretariat.

Fr. Tjeu Timmermans, O. Carm, the Dutch Prior Provincial, gave his message to the Chapter in
behalf of the brothers and sisters in the Netherlands. The historic signing of the joint
“Agreement between the Dutch Province of Carmel and the Philippine General
Commissariat of the Same Order,” followed next. Fr. Tjeu Timmermans, O. Carm signed on
behalf of the Dutch Province and Fr. Antonio dela Cruz, O. Carm for the Philippine General
Commissariat.

There were 12 major concerns of the General Commissariat that had been discussed which
divided the 3-day Chapter proper: 1) Vocation Animation and Initial Formation, 2) Carmelite
Parish Ministry, 3) School Ministry, 4) Carmelite Youth Ministry, 5) Center for Spirituality -
Manila, 6) Media and Communication, 7) Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation, 8) Earth
Spirituality through Land Development, 9) Mission in Asia, 10) Administration and Finance, 11)
On-going Formation and 12) Young Carmel Philippines Foundation (YCPF)

On the first day of the Chapter proper, the first major concern discussed and deliberated on was
The Mission Statement of the Philippine General Commissariat. The second concern was the
proposals on Vocation Animation and Initial Formation.

After dinner, a cultural program was celebrated to conclude the first day. The Chapter
participants were the performers in the program with a night of singing, dancing and sharing of
brotherhood and sisterhood.

The third day of the Chapter was a busy day as the participants discussed the eight major
concerns: Carmelite Parishes, Carmelite Schools, Youth Ministry, Center for Spirituality-Manila,
Media Program, JPIC and Mission in Asia.

In the afternoon, a Eucharistic Celebration was presided over by the Most Rev. Honesto F.
Ongtioco, DD, Bishop of Cubao Diocese. There was a garden dinner and “Makiling Ensemble” a
musical group that was invited to perform during the evening program.

On the third day, three major concerns were discussed; Administration and Finance, Ongoing
Formation and YCPF.
In the afternoon, the election of the new leadership took place. The Prior General presided over
the elections with the assistance of the Chapter’s Commission on Elections: Frs. Reynold
Caigoy, Gabriel Dolotina, Gilbert Sabado and Bro. Carlito Ranoco. The result of the elections
were as follows:

Commissary General: Fr. Artemio D. Jusayan, O. Carm.

First Councilor: Fr. Christian B. Buenafe, O. Carm
Second Councilor: Fr. Eduardo Albiño, O. Carm
Third Councilor: Fr. Christopher L. Exala, O. Carm
Fourth Councilor: Fr. Perfecto Ll. Adeva, Jr., O. Carm

Extended Councilors: Bro. Gerald Flor Gutierrez, O. Carm (student friars)

Bro. Carlito Ranoco, O. Carm (associates)

A closing Eucharistic Celebration capped the Chapter presided by Fr. Tjeu Timmermans, O.
Carm, the Dutch Prior Provincial and the newly elected Commissary General, Fr. Artemio D.
Jusayan, O. Carm gave his inaugural address. It was attended by Representatives of the
Carmelite Family in the Philippines. An Agape was shared by all and a program was hosted by
the student friars.

One-page Speech of Fr. Joseph Chalmers, O. Carm

A Good Start for Titus Brandsma Center Media Program

January 2005 was a good start for Titus Brandsma Center- Media Program. (TBCMP). The
Australian Embassy in Manila, the University of the Philippines Film Institute and the TBCMPth
the UP Film Institute on January 24-28, 2005. TBCMP through its pelikula@titusbrandsma
spearheaded the Cinema Australia Film Festival, a week long celebration of Austalia’s best films
to honor its greatest filmmakers. The Australian films screened were the Japanese Story, He
Died with a Felafel in His Hand, The Interview, The Year My Voice Broke and the Last Wave.
The opening ceremony was participated by Australian government officials, film and TV
directors and enthusiasts, academics and students, Carmelites. Fr. Christian B. Buenafe, O.
Carm underlined the importance of the program.

Spirituality of Communication and Inter-faith Dialogue

On February 25, 2005, TBCMP facilitated a course on Media and Spirituality through Film
Dialogue to 200 college students (Christians and Muslims) at the Mindanao State University in
Marawi City with our partners; the College of Social Sciences and Humanities, Blessed Virmgin
Mary Chaplaincy and MSU English Department. event. TBCMP screened an Iranian film
Children of Heaven, and all the participants shared views on the universal value of love, care and
perseverance. The faculty members and students evaluated the course positively.

The Titus Brandsma Center-Media Program with its local partner the Blessed Virgin Mary
Chaplaincy of Mindanao State University of Marawi City (MSU) organized a half-day seminar
composed of both a Christian and Muslim audience who are into interfaith dialogue for the past
three decades. A module on the Importance of Media and Communication in Interfaith Dialogue
was given was presented. The forum was held on February 26, 2005 at the OVCRE Conference
Room and was co-organized by the MSU-Institute for Peace and Development in Mindanao and
the Ranao Muslim Christian Movement for Dialogue and Peace. An open forum followed after
the lecture and concerns were raised and discussed openly on how to maximize media and how
to be partners in effective communication in efforts at dialogue.

TBCMP in Oroquieta City

On February 24, 2005, TBCP presented two courses to the school personnel and students of
Stella Maris College in Oroquieta City, Misamis Oriental. The courses were: Teaching in a
Multi- Media Age and Media and Sprituality through Film Dialogue. Around 120 participated in
the whole day course. We thank Sr. Andrea Casuso, FMM the School Direcress and Mr. Francis
Buac , the College Dean for the invitation.
Metro Manila Seminars

On January 22, 2005, TBCMP was also invited to give a seminar on Parenting in the Multimedia
Age at St. Therese of the Child Jesus and of the Holy Face School in Villamor Airbase, Pasay
City. Around 200 parents attended the course which initiated by our Carmelite Missionary
Sisters of St. Therese of the Child Jesus.

On January 29, 2005, TBCMP presented a course on Media and Spirituality to 200 Credit
Cooperative members and youth of Dasmarinas, Cavite, a mission area of the the Augustinian
Sisters of Our Lady of Consolation.

Formation of Religious Life

TBCMP as a part of the Philippine Church Communicators Network (PCCNet), attended a

planning meeting for the Association of Major Religious Superiors (AMRSP) together with the
other Church workers in media. Present in the discussion were: Fr. James Reuters, S.J., Sr.
Consolata Manding, FSP (Paulines), Mrs. Zenaida Rotea (CBCP Women’s Desk - Cinema), Fr.
Franz Josef-Eilers, SVD and Mr. Anthony Roman (FABC-Office of Social Communication), and
Ms. Delia Hernandez (Philippine Association of Media Education).

This planning meeting was a seminar workshop that could potentially help religious superiors
better understand the new communication culture and stemming from that understanding, the
formation of a more communicative attitude. Rather than react against the new culture that they
might see its relevance for today. TBCMP was one of the invited guests for the planning session
to help in organizing the seminar.

The seminar-workshop is tentatively themed as “Religious Life in a New Communication

Culture,” and will be held in August, 2005.

Experiencing Poetry
Bro. Arnold Alindayu, O. Carm attended a night of poetry reading and music at the Fudge Bar in
España, Manila. The poetry reading session was organized by Fullhouse- School of Performance
and Creative Arts (Fullhouse-SPCA) last February 25. It was a minor fund raising activity for
Fullhouse to help in the building of the Multi-Media Library and Learning Center (MMLRC).

TBCMP is a member of the Fullhouse Board of Trustees.

St. Vincent Ferrer Parish Installation

The official installation of the St. Vincent Ferrer Parish in Saysa-in, Bataan was held last March
27, 2005. Fr. Dionisio “Boy” Ramos was the appointed parish priest as the installation ceremony
was officiated by no less than his Most Excellency, Bishop Socrates Villegas, bishop of Balanga.

Fr. Boy was welcomed by the people with warm hearts via lively songs sang and clapping during
the ceremony.

The parish is small yet the people were very friendly, accommodating and warm. The celebration
ended in a sumptuous lunch prepared by the Bagac people.

Goodbye Fr. Aniceto!

Fr. Anis, as our Carmelite confreres call him, left the Philippines last Monday, March 28 for East
Timor. He had completed his 8-month program at SAIDI on Asian Religious Formation.

His moments were shared among his brother Carmelites through the Teresa community every
weekends. But he stayed at SAIDI on weekdays.
His basic knowledge about the Philippines came from his Filipino Parish Priest at Bobonaro,
East Timor. Though Filipinos are similar to Timorese in terms of religion, Catholic majority, he
remarked that Filipinos have a very different way of speaking English.

For him, his stay with SAIDI was like a retreat, the atmosphere of solitude and silence, just like a
hermit. But what he liked best was his experience of feeling at home, fraternity and patience. He
mentioned the traffic here in Manila as an example as to how Filipinos are so patient and
understanding.

His memorable experiences were that of the community living experience with the Carmelites
and the seven other participants from other countries in his program. He explained that it was his
first time to be in a community of both male and female and experienced the idiosyncrasies of
how each interact and communicate with one another in a different way. He began to understand
things according to their views.

Another memorable experience was his taste of the native Filipino halo-halo from Chowking. He
was also able to accompany Fr. John Malley at the Carmelite Sisters in Dumaguete (Stella
Maris). He mopped and swept floors at the sisters’ convent, had a fun swim and celebrated mass
with them.

A despidida dinner was organized by the Teresa Community last March 26. Fr. Anis has only
beautiful words and encouragement for the Carmelite friars to strengthen their prayer life and
continue their mission.
Balitaan

Agusan Community

Parish Hall burned down

March 1, 2005, the parish seminar houses was entirely gutted by fire. It is ironic since March is
Fire Prevention Month in the country. The parish seminar house of St. Michael the Archangel
parish was burned down very early morning of the same day. The damage was estimated at Php
100,000.00. Investigations are being made by the Fire Department with some witnesses. For the
time being, seminars, conferences and meetings are held inside the church. It will take sometime
to build it again since the priority of the parishioners is to finish the church construction which
still needs a large amount of money.

Carmelite Schools

March is the last month of the school year. Everyone is busy with the final examinations,
submission of grades, retreat for the students, evaluations, practice for graduation and graduation
dates. Fr. Gabriel Dolotina, O.Carm., the President of the three schools is quite busy
overseeing the many activities of the school. He was also with the high school students who went
to Escalante City, Negros Occidental for the Inter-School Integration with MCC students in
February this year. The other Carmelite Friars were also involved in giving retreats,
recollections and in the administration of the sacraments for the students.

Postulancy Updates

The Postulants greeted the year 2005 with great optimism to continue to sail on despite
the high seas we have gone through in our journey in the postulancy formation program. Last
January 10-11 this year, we underwent a session on Catholic Social Encyclicals. The social
encyclicals Rerum Novarum and Sollicitudo Rei Socialis were eye openers. We obtained more
insights into the teaching of the Church to uplift the masses, and were able to pinpoint, and learn
the causes, as well as the ways towards the solution of problems suffered by the people.

A few days after our sessions on Social Encyclicals, the Postulants had their Community
Criticism-Self-Criticism and sharing of the immersion experience at Filipinas Palm Oil
Plantations, Inc. Each one of us gave his observation and constructive criticism. Then, we gave
our recommendations for more harmonious relationships and betterment of our community
facilitated by Fr. Noel Rosas. On January 22, the Postulants, attended a march rally around San
Francisco, Agusan del Sur to commemorate the 18th anniversary of the Mendiola Massacre, and
at the same time to demand the government give justice to all victims of Mendiola and Hacienda
Luisita Massacre, as well as to continue the legitimate demands of the farmers for a genuine
agrarian reform program.

While On January 24-26, we had another significant session with Cynthia Lakip who
facilitated the module regarding religious vows. Each one of us was given ample time to reflect
and share our reflections with the community.

February 2005 was another challenge for the postulants because it was our fourth time to
live with the people who live on the margins. The group was divided into two groups and were
assigned to two different areas under the Nagkahiusang Mag-uuma sa Agusan del Sur. The first
group was dispersed to the remote areas of Prosperidad, and the other group at Wasi-an.

Escalante Community

- Values Formation for Escalante Philippine National Police

On January 7, 2005, Fr. Paul Medina, O.Carm., gave the first talk on God-centered, people and
community-based and human rights-conscious law enforcement. The talk was well-received by
the police who are all conscious of improving their task and image. The Escalante City Police
Force is undergoing a process of enhancing its service and invited the Carmelites to give values
formation to the law enforcement officers. Two years ago, this force won the coveted award of
the Best National Police Force of the Philippines and wanted to maintain its good image, so a
values formation program is designed for this purpose. This is a far cry from the former police
force of Escalante, which in the ‘80s was tainted with human rights violations. In fact, the
Escalante police force was one of those implicated in the Escalante Massacre of September 20,
1985 where 20 innocent civilians were massacred in front of the municipal hall of Escalante.

- Diocesan Pastoral Planning of the Diocese of San Carlos

To effectively respond to the present demands and needs of this young diocese, the Diocese of
San Carlos Borromeo decided during the January 10, 2005 Clergy Meeting to have a Diocesan
evaluation and Pastoral Planning. Carmelite pastors, Frs. Christopher Exala and Harry Bloem
Reynold Caigoy and Paul Medina were deeply involved in the activity. Frs. Caigoy and Media
were asked to compose the Diocesan Team to design a format for evaluation and planning. Fr.
Paul facilitated the meeting of the Diocesan Evaluation and Pastoral Planning Team on January
17, 2005. A format for evaluation was designed by the team and on February 7, 2005 Clergy
Meeting Bishop Salvador Modesto, DD and Fr. Medina presented it to the clergy for refinement
and final approval. After some discussion and minor changes in the evaluation format, it was
approved by the body. It was expected that the Diocesan W.E.ST.O.Y. Commissions would
make their evaluation soon and submit the results on March 7, 2005.

Placid Danao River Turns Murky

The placid water and idyllic view of Danao River is disturbed by a three-cornered fight. In one
corner, are the government authorities that are drawing up plans to clean up the whole canal for
eco-tourism. In another corner, the Negros businessmen who are building structures for their
fishponds protected with armed guards; and finally , the poor fisher folks who are putting up
protests placards along the river banks. With a body of water that connects the lands of Old
Escalante, Buenavista, Alimango, Mabini and Langub and a canal that is big and deep enough to
be navigable upstream up to 12 kilometers, this river was the main waterway for transport since
the 11th century. At the moment, it is a good fishing ground for small fishermen for milkfish,
st. peter’s fish, carps, oyster, shrimps and crabs and so that fishing structures are put up along
the river banks. Mayor Santiago Barcelona and the city officials are bent on cleaning up the
river from these fishing structures and to develop Danao River for tourism purposes and the
initial talks for demolition was originally set on March 3, 2005. The fishing community of 460
families along the Danao River banks pleaded with the city officials for reconsideration. In
solidarity with the poor fishermen, the Carmelites of Escalante and the local Justice, peace and
Integrity of Creation (JPIC) and Service Commission personnel went to the Danao River on
March 1 and 9, 2005. A dialogue with the people concerned was accomplished on March 10,
2005. At present, there is a moratorium on the demolition of fishing structures but the people are
in uneasy and anxious as to what would be the future of their main source of living.

MCC Is now 44 years old

On February 24, 2005, the Diocesan Bishop Jose F. Advincula, Jr. came to Mount Carmel
College (MCC) and presided over the Holy Eucharist to commemorate the 44th Anniversary of
the foundation of the school. This is the opening salvo of a three-day affair that is composed of
games, literary, musical program, inter-school integration with Agusan Carmel schools, Alumni
homecoming and other activities to highlight the event.

Fr. Dionisio Ramos, O.Carm. bids goodbye to the people of Escalante

A meaningful program for Fr. Dionisio “Boy” Ramos was held on the evening of March 7, 2005
at the garden of Mount Carmel Monastery to bid him farewell. The parishioners brought along
food and gifts. Fr. Eugene Peral of the Parish of St. Anthony of Padua in Toboso and the Vicar
Forance, Fr. Wilson “Embong” Mendoza of the parish of St. Vincent Ferrer in Vito, Sagay also
came to grace the occasion. Some parishioners emotionally gave their messages for Fr. Dionisio
to remember while others sang a song to delight his heart. Bishop Jose Advincula, Jr., came
earlier in the morning of March 7 and told him that he is always welcome to come and visit the
Diocese of San Carlos any time he wishes.
Cebu Community

Spring of Carmel

1. In the beginning of January 2005, a novice, Karl Reformina from Surigao del Sur left the
Novitiate formation program.

2. The novitiate community visited the nuns’ monasteries in Luzon. They went to Carmel of Our
Lady of Nazareth in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija in January and Mater Décor Carmeli in
Tarlac on March 7. From Tarlac, they proceeded to Carmel of the Immaculate Heart of Mary
in Burgos, Pangasinan staying until March 11 for their Lenten Desert Days in the retreat-house
of the sisters. Before the novitiate year ends, they intend to visit the nuns at Stella Maris
Monastery in Tanay, Rizal.

The nuns appreciate these visits. Due to the distance from one another visits like these are not
very frequent. But it is clear that, we are always welcome and get to know one another in our
different ways of trying to live out Carmel vocation.

Titus Brandsma Student-Friary

The first quarter of the year 2005 was busy for the Student Friars. As they welcome the
new year, new tasks await them.

The second year were busy in meeting their theological requirements, reports, reflections,
and in writing their Ethnographic Study. With their busy schedule, the ICTCians second year
were able to hold an integration last March 12-14, 2005 at Tali Beach, Nasugbu, Batangas. The
theme of the gathering was “Pamamaalam: Isang Pagdiriwang, Paglisan, Pagtatapos, Pagsisimula
Para Sa Tagumpay at Pagkakaisa.”
 Bro. Realino Hermo, O.Carm., finished his theological formation with a Public Lecture
last March 18, 2005. His paper was on “Pagsamba at Pananampalataya sa Buhay ng mga Tao sa
Barangay Sinalhan, Sta. Rosa, Laguna” . Congratulations Bro. Bogs!

The third year was into the second-half of their project-implementation. Bro. Rhen
Caculiatn, O.Carm., continued his assignment in Cawayan, Real, Quezon, and Bro. Edwin
Magbago in Pesa, Gen.Nakar, Quezon. From Sta.Rosa, Laguna, Bro. Rodrigo Bautista, O.Carm.,
was transferred to Tanuan, Real, Quezon. The project-implementation was to respond to the
Rehabilitation and Relief Program of ICTC to the areas affected by the November 2004
typhoons. They conducted a Rapid Community Appraisal, debriefing, medical pack
distribution, and prepared the community for the reconstruction and rebuilding of the
communities. In terms of the housing project, the project implementation lasted for a month,
from January 12-February 12, 2005. Special time was asked from the ICTCians considering that
the actual project time-frame was for three-months

After the month’s immersion in their respective areas, the third year student friars will
start writing their research study. The study includes the impact of the past calamities on the
community and the recommendations for planning reference.

The lone fourth year student friar, Bro. Alaindelon Balasabas, O.Carm. successfully
presented his theological reflections last March 14, 2005. The title of his theological reflection is:
Pagsasalo-salo: Pagkilala sa mga Kaugaliang Katango-tangi sa Pamayanan sa San Marcelino
Tungo sa Muling Pagbubuklod ng Munting Sambayanang Kristiyano ”. Congratulations
Bro.Alain for a job well done.

IFRS (Institute of Formation and Religious Studies) students, Bros. Jerry Cañas, Joel
Comaling and Philip Rabosa, O.Carm. were also glued to the computers for the their final paper
requirements. Bro. Philip Rabosa will undergo his Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) summer
program at St. Luke’s Medical Center; while Bro. Joel Comaling will take modular classes at the
Maryhill School of Theology (MST). Bro. Jerry Cañas will join the rest of the second year group
for their summer program.

Bro. Arnold Alindayu, O.Carm., is quite active in preparing his paper requirements and
his video presentation. He is now currently enrolled at the Catholic University of Sto. Tomas for
his Master’s in Theology in Pastoral and Social Communication.

Bro. Gerald Flor Guiterrez, O.Carm., was elected Extended Council for Student-friars of
the General Commissariate to represent the student friars while Bro. Benedicto Zaragosa is now
back in the community after his training and immersion program with Agusan Community in
2004.

Bros. Rodrigo Bautista and Bro. Rhen Caculitan were selected , together with three other
ICTCians, to participate in the Sandiwaan Exchange Program. . Sandiwaan is the exchange
program between the University of Vienna in Austria and the Inter Congregational Theological
Center (ICTC). This year it will be the University of Vienna who will host the program. They
will leave on the 3rd of April and return on the 20th of May with a visit to The Netherlands and
meet with the different Carmelites communities there.

The Student - friars community will have their semestral retreat this March 28- April 1,
2005 the Little Flower Convent in Baguio City with Fr. Martin Pierik, O.Carm., as their retreat
master.

Teresa Community

The community was graced by the visit of Fr. David Dillon, O.Carm. of the PCM province on
January 21- 23, 2005. He visited the community and stayed for a few days before he joined the
Medical Mission to the Diocese of Borongan, Eastern Samar. Fr. Dillon also paid a visit to the
Spring of Carmel Novitiate community.
CENTER FOR SPIRITUALITY - MANILA

• CSM organized a Peer Review Discussion on February 21, 2005 at Elijah Conference
Room, on Fr. Leonardo N. Mercado’s, SVD research project, “Missionary Spirituality
of those working with Philippine Indigenous Peoples”. In this project, Fr. Mercado’s
interviewed 12 missionaries (6 men and 6 women; 7 non-Filipinos, and 5 Filipinos;
9 religious and 3 lay missionaries) working from Kalinga (Northern Philippines) to Jolo,
Sulu (Southern Philippines). CSM gathered known experts in missiology, spirituality and
indigenous culture in the Philippines to share their professional insights and critique of
the Research Fellow's work in terms of any fresh understanding of "Missionary
Spirituality" as explored by the researcher. The peer reviewers were Fr. Rocco Viviano,
SX, Sr. Helen Graham, MM, Fr. Luc Mees, MJ, Sr. Reine Ramos, DC and Dr. Agnes
Brazal. CSM currently supports nine on-going research projects on Spirituality.
• The CSM Team- Fr. Christian Buenafe and Ms. Rowena Ladaga shared a seminar on
Spirituality and Research Methodology in the Study of Spirituality last March 12, 2005.
The participants were Carmelite Associates, parish pastoral officers and members of Our
Lady of Mount Carmel Parish who are preparing for their their Summer Pastoral Mission
from April 1 to May 15, 2005 in Escalante City, Negros Occidental.

• CSM is happy to have Ms. Merian P. Aldea, the new assistant research coordinator. Ms.
Aldea is 31 years old and a former junior sister of Dominican Sisters of the Anunciata.
She is now pursuing her master’s degree in Missiology at the Institute for Consecrated
Life in Asia (ICLA) a welcome addition to the Carmelite Family.
 In Memory of
Mo. Ma. Leticia de la Cruz Giron, O. Carm.

St. Therese of Liseaux, in her death bed remarked, “I am not

dying, I am entering into life.” For the blessed, death is only a starting
point and not an end, thus we call it “birthday” into eternity. Such, too
was the shining witness of Mo. Ma. Leticia de la Cruz Giron, Prioress
of Carmel of the Holy Family, a cloistered community of nuns. In
1999, her sickness was diagnosed as breast cancer, she bowed her head and gently responded,
“Thy will be done.” She was ready because she believed: life is not taken away, it is just
changed.

At the request of the community, she underwent several sessions of chemotheraphy and
cobalt treatment. From April of that year her cancer spread to the lungs, ribs and bones. On
February 27, 2005 at 2:37 dawn, at the age of 54, she died with her whole community gathered
around her singing and praying in the infirmary of the monastery. Two priests from the adjacent
Immaculate Conception Seminary brought her the Holy Viaticum and with the Community
prayed the Recommendation of the Soul. Finally, they gave her the Papal blessing with plenary
indulgence in “articulo mortis” (proper of our Carmelite Order).

Mo. Ma. Leticia served the community as Infirmarian for more than 9 years, as Sister In-
charge of Vestments and as turnkeeper. She started to hold office as Prioress in the year 1995.
She was elected to the same office the second time in the 2001 and was re-elected for another
term last June 17, 2004. It’s not easy to take on the duty of administering a community with her
physical condition but it was typical of her, in the spirit of service, not to refuse any office
assigned to her by God. She continued her mission up to the last weeks of her life.
 Mo. Ma Leticia, with always a smile on her face, was a humble person, unassuming and
kind –whether as Prioress or as an ordinary nun. The last year of her sickness made her
simplicity, magnanimity, fortitude, gentleness and motherly care more pronounced.

Friends and benefactors who confided to her their own problems and sufferings drew
light and strength from her composure and examples.

When fear of death lurks in today’s generation, Mo. Ma. Leticia’s readiness to die
witnesses to that great trust, unwavering hope and everlasting love for the resurrected Christ in
whom she lived, she moved and had her being.

“I want to see the face of God …” she would tell us, then and again. This was what she
wanted with all her soul, thus she abandoned herself beyond all measure.

Carmelite NGO Meeting

Jakarta, February 23-24,2005

On February 23 and 24 , 2005 Fr. Bernard Roosendaal, O.Carm. attended the Carmelite NGO
meeting of the South held in Lembah Karmel, Chikanere, about three hours drive from Jakarta.
Lembah Karmel is a wonderful 42 hectare spot in the mountain area ,developed by Fr. Yohanes
Indrakusuma O.Carm. They call the place: “A Spiritual Oasis”.

The meeting was attended by eleven participants from Indonesia, Fr. Roosendaal representing
the Philippine Carmel , the sisters Jane Remson O.Carm. and Helen Ojario O.Carm.from the
USA and Fr. William Harry from the General Curia. There were no delegates from Vietnam,
India and Australia.

Discussions focused on the meaning of the O.Carm. NGO, our participation and possible benefits
for the people in our ministries. During their workshop, the Indonesian delegates selected a core
group to plan the next move of the Indonesian province. A coordinator was elected and April 24
to 27,2005 was set for their follow up meeting .

With a Eucharist celebration, a good meal and thanks to the great hospitality of Fr. Yohanes the
first Carmelite NGO Meeting of the South was closed.

From the Desk of YCPF Director

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

February 13, 2005 was a remarkable event for YCPF due to the mission appeal conducted
in Tarlac City, the first mission appeal here in our very own country. The successful activity was
made possible through the efforts of our Third Order lay Carmelites in Tarlac, headed by Sr.
Lita, the Prioress and Dr.Ben Syguan, the YCPF Coordinator of Tarlac. The mission appeal was
conducted in the Cathedral during Sunday masses. Fr. Aris Escobal and Bro.Gerry Canas shared
during the homily the various Carmelite Missions, ministries and vocation. Thanks to Fr. Rey,
parish priest and Bishop Florentino Cinencse who warmly welcomed us and were very
supportive of the Carmelite presence in their diocese through our Nuns in Sta. Ignatia.

My appreciation too to our very own Carmelite Parishes especially in Escalante City and
San Francisco, Agusan del Sur for their support during my mission appeal in these parishes. To
Frs. Christopher Exala and Eduardo Albino and the communities. To Sis. Sally Ombion,
vocation animator in Negros; Sis. Linda Barairo, and Sis Zenaida Tan who helped me during the
mission appeal. .

YCPF accounting system is getting better through the help of our National office
bookkeeper, Ms.Viole Villanueva. A uniform accounting system was installed by Ms.
Villanueva during our visit on March 3-15,2005. Special mention to Dra. Linda Tancingco, Sis.
Febe Tan, Sis. Percy Mahinay, Bro. Joe Pacatang, Sis. Tonette Sadaya, Sis. Nena Amodia, Sis.
Weng Mariano, and Bro. Troy Buenafe, your support to the foundation is greatly appreciated.
Fr. Aris Escobal, O.Carm.
YCPF Director

2005 MARCH Birthday Celebrants

March
1 Joe Solomon (Canada)
Corazon Nicholson (USA)
2 Emelita Dela Cruz
Eugenia Best
Carlito Orig (USA)
3 Maginda Cadeliña
5 Letty Ventura
6 Lilia Delos Reyes
8 Carmen Dela Rosa
Enting Estrella
Teresita Penaranda (NY)
George Macsura, Jr.(USA)
9 Aurora Gonzales
Adoracion Viray
Raymond Ecarma (USA)
10 Fe Remendado
Dolly B. San Agustin
Sonia F. Dristel (USA)
11 Zosie Duterte
12 Linda Castro (NY)
14 Florentina Flores
Lita Ilagan
Carmen Uy
15 Capt. Zecarias L. Albina
 Rosita Daus
Sylvia Christiansen (USA)
16 Hilaria Escobal (USA)
17 Gertrudes Mencias, TOC
Natividad delos Santos
18 Felicitas Villason
Willy Guiriba
Nimia Magtoto
Ignacia Trueno
Marie Herrera (USA)
Sonia Quirino
Lorrie Pascual Paredez
19 Herminia Vergara
20 Maria Sol Tellis (Canada)
21 Lourdes Lansang
Lina Eumen (NY)
22 Eulalio Tanseco (USA)
23 Nestor Fernandez (NY)
24 Jaime Dejuras (USA)
25 Marlou Bautista
26 Sr. Emma Gutierrez, TOC
Alejandro Jenteroy (USA)
Rosalina Cejuela
Josefina Basco
Ditas Fuentabella (USA)
28 Willy Onglao
Edilberto Maglilong
Segundo Guelos
30 Adoracio Soriben
31 Belen Cecilio
2005 april Birthday Celebrants
April
1 Irene Abejo (USA)
2 Nomy Lopez
Resurrection Rabagay
Zara Raneses (USA)
4 Raul Gesmundo (USA)
Fenie T. Pascual
5 Louella Almarza
Sr. Flor A. Jose,TOC
6 Corazon Romero
Gloria De Jesus
Neneth Veran
Edgar Quiso (USA)
8 Ed Diaz De Rivera
Perpetua Valencia
Diosa Marquez (USA)
9 Josefina Flores (Canada)
Alfonso Brillantes (USA)
10 Jose Sebucao
11 Menandro Gregori (USA)
Joelen Pacurio
Sr. Nani Culi, TOC
12 Shirley Dela Cruz
13 Beatriz Veneracion
Herman Abelido (USA)
14 Alfredo Alteras
15 Ela Angeles (Canada)
16 Juliet Litigio
Edna Ancheta
 Ed Cueto (USA)
Leah Cabanban
Pompia Alulla
17 James Lee
Aileen Bueno
18 Pedrito Fortun
19 Peter James Damps (USA)
20 Sol Castillo
Feliciana Villarama
Renith Faminial (Canada)
Rosalinda Sazon (Canada)
Lilian Pagnenelli (Canada)
21 Anselma Trivino
22 Meis Tanquilina
Ma. Elena Garcia
23 Yolanda Escobar (USA)
24 Luz Mojica
Zenaida Cruz
Josefa Aguila De Jesus (USA)
26 Emelinda Gobangco
Venida Rebecca
Bernabe Hernandez Jr.
29 Petra Diaz Goossen (Netherlands)
Veronica T. Molina (Canada)
Angelo Angeles (Canada)
30 Expedia Allazar
Sofia Ampil (Canada)

2005 May Birthday Celebrants

May 4 Maria Flordeliza Conejos
Ester Cueto (USA)
6 Carmelo Castillo
Delia Aguilar (USA)
7 Eufrosina De leon
Veronica Kipping
Andre Don Sulay (Canada)
Veronica Kipping
8 Susana Asuncion
9 Jun Bantag (USA)
10 Antonia Fortun
11 Dennis Suarez
Violeta Villanueva (YCPF Auditor)
12 Godofredo M. Gentalian (USA)
13 Carmelita Dela Cruz
Gliceria M. Guerrero
Neneth Paliza
14 Teresita Bernal
16 Pete Tan
17 Sr. Mercedes P. Castro,TOC
Elsa Manalili
Norma Dagaang
18 Mariel Umila
Julieto Hibaya
19 Ruby Borja
20 Rosario Abarro
Nikki Tangcuangco
21 Jesus Remendado Jr.
Melita Concepcion Sia Manaloto (Canada)
Quil Baya
22 Sr. Onnie Guevarra, TOC
Sr. Florecita Monilla, TOC
Elizabeth Nabong (USA)
 23 Gloria Tangihan-Albacite (USA)
24 Atty. Luis Ma. Jose Sison
25 Sr. Nimfa Tangcuangco, TOC
Jovelito Olaer
28 Celestina Baldedara
Nenita Alansalon (USA)
29 Eden Mari t. Sia (Canada)
30 Elena Vialoces (Canada)
31 Virgilio Miguel

2005 JUNE Birthday Celebrants

June 1 Anita Cavanto (USA)
Germelina Verdan (USA)
3 Corazon Baltazar
Oliva Abbot
4 Adelaida Ayroso
Cynthia Lustre
Atty. Carmel Grace Paredez
Turning Contreras
5 Sofia Jaramillo
6 Jennifer Gaspar
Ma.Cristina Abad
Corazon Reyes
7 Winnie Bantug (US)
Jeremias Salapang
9 Rosalina Go
10 Jethro Aileron Bueno
11 Sr.Emma Ariola,TOC
14 Consejo Abustan
 Erlinda Navalez
Jun Deato (USA)
15 Vilma Malig
Michael Dennis David
Fortunata Darantes (USA)
16 Sr. Estelita Songcog, TOC
18 Ronald Guieb (USA)
19 Portia Manga
Josefina B. Alcala (USA)
20 Jannice Pastera
Pedro Susi
Guillermo Nabong (USA)
21 Estela Payongngayong
22 Dr.Jose Martin Fhad
Benida G. Dago-oc
23 Atty. Agripinio Galvez
Romeo Infante
Ning Gesmundo (USA)
24 Ramona Racho
Elsa Bustillo (NY)
Dra. Natividad Santos, TOC
26 Juanita Mares
Teresita Velando
28 Corazon V. Ramos
29 Mia Reyes
30 Felicidad Pagtalunan

Congratulations!
- To Fr. Christian Buenafe, O.Carm. on his appointment as members of the Philippine
Catholic Mission Council last January 26, 2005 by Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the
Philippines - Episcopal Commission on Mission. He will serve as consultant to the said
body.
- To our Commissariat Bookkeeper, Mr. Irwin Benjamin Mejia who graduated Master’s
in Business Administration, from the Philippine School of Business and Arts, April 20,
2005.
- To Fr. Aniceto Maia da Costa, O.Carm. from East Timor who finished the 8-month
intensive course for Formators from Asian Religious Formators’ Institute of the
Southeast Asia Interdisciplinary Development Institute, Antipolo City