PH Mission Directors Gather for Annual Assembly: Fostering Solidarity and Environmental Stewardship

by Katya Santos

Puerto Princesa City, Palawan – Mission directors of the Pontifical Mission Societies-Philippines (PMS) recently gathered for their Annual General Assembly, held from June 17 to 20 at the St. Ezekiel Moreno Spirituality and Development Center in San Jose, Puerto Princesa.

Approximately 70 participants, including 65 priests and lay collaborators, represented 16 ecclesiastical provinces across 50 dioceses in the country.

The assembly focused on the theme “Go and invite everyone to the banquet,” drawing inspiration from Matthew 22:9. During the event, Rev. Fr. John Christian U. Young, President of Father Saturnino Urios University in Butuan City, delivered a keynote address emphasizing the inclusive invitation to all. Another speaker, Rev. Fr. Marc Loiue Calo, Rector of Mission Society of the Philippines Seminary in Tagaytay, discussed prayer and mission.

The assembly provided a platform for fruitful discussions, fostering environmental stewardship and solidarity with the Tagbanuas, an Indigenous Peoples group in Palawan.

A tree planting activity at St. Ezekiel Moreno Parish Church on June 19 symbolized growth, resilience, and hope for a greener tomorrow.

According to Msgr. Esteban Lo, PMS National Director, through these collective efforts, the Church reaffirmed its commitment to caring for our common home and extending an open invitation to all. "The Church stands in solidarity with the Tagbanuas, which is why we planted trees. Our mission extends beyond spiritual matters; it includes caring for our common home.” These sentiments echo Pope Francis’s Encyclical, Laudato Si, which emphasizes environmental responsibility and the protection of God’s creation.

Bishop Socrates Mesiona, Vicar Apostolic of Puerto Princesa and Chairman of the CBCP Episcopal Commission on Mission, has extended his gratitude to all the attendees. He hopes that the AVPP, as the host, was not only able to showcase the beauty and culture of Palawan but also allowed the participants to witness how its people could be invited to the banquet, as anchored in this year’s theme.