By FIN CSCom
Photos by Mr. John Villafania

Calamba City, the Philippines, 28 November 2027 -- The Salesians of Don Bosco - Philippines North Province celebrated its Province Community Day on 27 November.

Fr. Gerardo Martin, SDB, FIN Provincial Superior, was the main presider. Confreres who celebrate their jubilee of Salesian profession and priestly ordination were the primary concelebrants.

In his homily, Fr. Larry Tan, who celebrates his 50th Salesian Profession this year and also marks his 70th birthday today, recalled how 50 years ago, seven of them made their first Profession in the same Shrine of Mary Help of Christians. Six of them have persevered.

This year also marks the 60th anniversary of the FIN Province, thus the theme “From 60 to inFINity.”

He mentioned, "Despite the differences we have in the Province, the occasion prods us to celebrate unity and collaboration.

Priestly Ordination

• Fr. Caesar Dizon - 40th
• Fr. Kit Hernandez - 25th
• Fr. Elu Ulanday - 25th
• Fr. Boc Nicolas - 25th

Salesian Profession

• Fr. Jun Lingad - 60th
• Br. Joe Ferrer - 60th
• Fr. Degz de Gu. - 50th
• Fr. Rene Lagaya - 50th
• Fr. Larry Tan - 50th
• Fr. Rene Molina - 50th
• Fr. Elis Santos - 40th
• Fr. Abel De Ocampo - 25th

After the post-communion prayer, this year’s jubilarians were recognized. Those who celebrate their jubilee of Salesian Profession were presented with a bust of Don Bosco, while plaques were given to those who mark their jubilee of Priestly Ordination.

Fr. Martin took advantage of the Province Day celebration to convoke the Provincial Chapter 24 (PC24). He assigned Fr. Alexander Garces, Rector of San Ildefonso Parish, to be the PC24 moderator.

After the Mass, the confreres were led to the gymnasium of Don Bosco College (DBC) where a program was held. The students and lay mission partners of DBC hosted the program, while some shared their talents in singing and playing violin.

During the program, testimonial videos were shown as a tribute to our jubilarians made by their respective communities.

After lunch, the Salesians played ballgames: football and basketball; some table games were also organized. Some prizes were also raffled off.

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