25/03/2026
𝗝𝗨𝗦𝗧 𝗜𝗡: 𝗔𝗴𝗮𝗸𝗮𝘆 𝘀𝗮 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗮 — 𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗿𝗶𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝗱𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗲𝗿 𝗥𝗲𝘃. 𝗙𝗿. 𝗚𝗘𝗥𝗔𝗥𝗗𝗢 𝗙. 𝗦𝗔𝗖𝗢, 𝗝𝗥.
His Holiness Pope Leo XIV has appointed the Reverend Father GERARDO FORTICH S**O, JR. as the 8th Bishop of the Diocese of Tagbilaran.
Habemus Episcopum Novum!
In a moment of profound significance for the Church, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV today announced the appointment of Rev. Fr. Gerardo F. S**o Jr. as the new Bishop of the Diocese of Tagbilaran.
The announcement coincides with the celebration of the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord - a feast that commemorates the Incarnation of Christ and the Blessed Virgin Mary’s faithful “yes” to God’s will.
Fr. S**o, who currently serves as Diocesan Administrator, becomes the 8th Bishop of Tagbilaran, succeeding Alberto Uy (Bishop Abet Uy).
His appointment underscores continuity in leadership, as he has guided the diocese during the period of sede vacante. Widely regarded for his pastoral zeal, humility, and sound administrative leadership, Fr. S**o has earned the trust and respect of clergy, religious, and lay faithful throughout the Diocese of Tagbilaran.
The timing of the announcement on the Solemnity of the Annunciation carries deep spiritual significance, highlighting themes of vocation, obedience, and openness to God’s will - virtues essential to episcopal ministry as a successor of the Apostles.
The Diocese of Tagbilaran now looks forward with renewed hope as it prepares to welcome its new shepherd.
Further details regarding Bishop-elect S**o’s episcopal ordination and installation are expected to be announced in the coming days.
As the Church rejoices in this development, the faithful are encouraged to pray for Bishop-elect S**o - that, like the Blessed Virgin Mary, he may respond generously to God’s call and faithfully shepherd the flock entrusted to his care.
His Holiness Pope Leo XIV has appointed the Reverend Father GERARDO FORTICH S**O, JR. as the 8th Bishop of the Diocese of Tagbilaran.
