Archbishop Gilbert Garcera Assumes CBCP Presidency

Archbishop Gilbert Garcera of Lipa has formally taken office as the new president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP). Elected during the CBCP’s 130th plenary assembly in July, he replaces Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David of Kalookan, who completed two four-year terms and currently serves as vice president of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences.

As CBCP president, Garcera will oversee the conference’s operations, act as its principal spokesperson, and lead the CBCP Permanent Council responsible for managing daily affairs and executing the assembly’s decisions. Additionally, he will represent the Philippine Catholic Church at both national and international forums, including Vatican meetings and engagements with other bishops’ assemblies.

Archbishop Garcera brings extensive experience within the CBCP, having served as assistant secretary general and executive secretary of the Episcopal Commission on Mission during his priesthood. Appointed bishop of Daet in 2007, he later chaired the Episcopal Commissions on Mission as well as Family and Life. Before his presidency, he was a member of the Permanent Council representing Southeast Luzon.

Serving as CBCP vice president is Archbishop Julius Tonel of Zamboanga. Also sworn in were the 10 regional representatives to the CBCP Permanent Council for the term December 1, 2025, to November 30, 2027.

The Luzon representatives include Archbishop-designate David William Antonio of Nueva Segovia, and Bishops Roberto Mallari of Tarlac, Elias Ayuban of Cubao, Euginius Canete of Gumaca, and Herman Abcede of Daet. Visayas are represented by Bishops Marvyn Maceda of San Jose de Antique and Isabelo Abarquez of Calbayog. Mindanao representatives are Bishops Cosme Almedilla of Butuan, Jose Colin Bagaforo of Kidapawan, and Glenn Corsiga of Ipil.

Archbishop Garcera, who has led the Archdiocese of Lipa since 2017, is expected to continue fostering the mission and vision of the CBCP throughout his tenure.