Sunday, July 15, 2012
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Profile and History of Our Lady of the Pillar Parish
Profile and History of the Our Lady of the Pillar Parish
by Gil Pellejo, Phd
OUR LADY OF THE PILLAR PARISH PROFILE:
I. Our Lady of the Pillar Parish (Foundation:1894; Refounded 1937; Elevated as a Parish 1968)
II. Address: Malunes St., Brgy. Ma-ao, Bago City, Negros Occidental 6101
III. Lot: Donated by Mr. Felix Yulo and Family
IV. Titular: Our Lady of the Pillar
V. Feast Day: October 12
VI. Vicariate: Bago
VII. Chronology of Assigned Priests at Our Lady of the Pillar Parish:
Ma-ao parish was formerly a Mission Area (Visita) of La Carlota:
Fr. Andres Torres 1880-1882
Ma-ao parish was formerly a Mission Area (Visita) of Bago:
Fr. Manuel Belloso 1882-1883
Fr. Ramon Alegria 1883-1884
Ma-ao during this time was still named as Zaragoza and was located at the present Hda. Zaragoza in Brgy. Jorge Araneta, Bago City. It was only during the time of the Following Recollects that Zaragoza was transferred to the present (February 2011) site and renamed Ma-ao:
1. Fr. Florentino Saenz,OAR Oct. 1894-June 1895 (Fr. Saenz was the first Recollect priest to be assigned permanently in Ma-ao)
2. Fr. Gregorio Albo, OAR June-Dec. 1895
3. Antonio Hernandez,OAR Nov. 1896-Apr.1898
4. Fr. Benito Condon, OAR Apr.-Sept. 1898
5. Fr. Tomas Goya, OAR Sept 1898-1899 ( Fr. Goya was the last Recollect priest to be assigned in Ma-ao)
After the 1898 Revolution records of priests assigned in Ma-ao seemed to be unavailable. Bago was considered the bastion of the Aglipayan movement and the anti-friar and anti-Spanish sentiments were high. With great probability Ma-ao was put under Filipino secular priests who were not trained to make chronicles of their work. The vacuum could be a basis for another study.
The Diocese of Bacolod was created on May 16, 1933:
6. Fr. Blas Parcon 1934-1937 (Fr. Blas was a Filipno secular priest assigned in Ma-ao from Bago but did not reside permanently)
7. Fr. Benjamin Hiponia Oct. 26,1937: June 4,1947: was assigned as parish priest of La Carlota: Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage, La Carlota City.
Parochial Vicar:
Fr. Roque Acebedo 1946-1949 (was asked by Fr. Amin to help him in Ma-ao because Fr. Broce left Ma-ao; he has no record in the Priests Profile of the Diocese of Bacolod)
8. Fr. Briccio Broce 1947-Feb. 26, 1949 (was from San Carlos, he was an uncle of Mr. Estanislao Apurado, father of Fr. Roger Apurado; he has no record in the Priests Profile of the Diocese of Bacolod)
9. Fr. Antonio Mamigo, July 23, 1950-1953(was unlce of Fr. Santes)
10. Fr. Wilfredo G. Saldejeno 1953-1961: was assigned as Parish Priest of Sto. Nino Parish, Cadiz.
11. Fr. Orville Giguinto(POM) April 16, 1961-1965: went into a sabbatical leave.
Parish (March 4, 1968 per Code of Canon Law 1917):
12. Fr. Vicente Montinola Feb. 28, 1965-1969: was assigned as parish priest of La Castellana.
Parochial Vicar:
Fr. Francisco Sermona 1966-1967: was assigned as Parochial Vicar of Hinigaran: St. Mary Magdalene Parish, Municipality of hinigaran.
Fr. Antonio M. Sedeño 1967-1969: was assigned as Parochial Vicar at Taculing: San Antonio Abad Parish, Brgy. Taculing, Bacolod City.
13. Fr. Vicente Dediles 1969-1975: was assigned as Chaplain of Central Manapla.
Fr. Gregorio Gigomo 1971-1976:
14. Fr. Woodrow Gubuan; 1975-1984: went to Rome for a study leave and then the U.S. as a Guest priest.
Parochial Vicars:
Fr. Nomeriano Barrios(POM) 1976-1978: went on a sabbatical leave; later was able to obtain a dispensation and his marriage was solemnized by Fr. Gubuan.
Fr. Norberto Contreras 1978-1981: was transferred as Parochial Vicar of San Sebastián Cathedral Parish, Bacolod City.
Fr. Abenir G. Pineda 1981-9184: was assigned as Procurator and Music director of Sacred Heart Seminary, Lupit, Bacolod City.
15. Fr. Roberto C. Carillo 1984-1990: went to Australia as a
Visiting priest.
Parochial Vicars:
Fr. Abenir G. Pineda 1981-1984:was assigned to the Sacred Heart Seminary as Procurator and Music Director.
Fr. Telesforo J. Neri Aug. 16,1988-June 8,1989: was assigned as Parochial Vicar of Hinigaran: St. Mary Magdalene Parish, Municipality of Hinigaran.
16. Fr. Felixberto R. Ibezate May 21, 1990-May 8, 1992: was assigned to Western Visayas Regional Hospital Chaplaincy.
17. Fr. Gerson T. Balitor May 8, 1992-September 17,2001: was assigned as parish priest of Murcia: Our Lady of Immaculate Concepcion Parish, Municipality of Murcia.
Parochial Vicar:
Fr. Belarmino Obordo, April 1993-Oct. 1993: was assigned to Victorias: Our Lady of Victory Parish, Hinigaran Municipality.
Fr. Edwin B. Mirano (POM) June 10, 1994-1995: went on a sabbatical leave.
Fr. Aniceto A. Buenafe Jr. Jan, 24, 1995-1996: was assigned as Parochial Vicar of Villamonte: Our Lady of Immaculate Concepción Parish, Brgy. Villamonte, Bacolod City.
18. Fr. Orlando T. Gargar 2001-2007: was assigned as Parish Priest of Victorias: Our Lady of Victory Parish, Victorias City.
Parochial Vicars:
Fr. Thomas G. Tan 2001-2005: was assigned as Chaplain of La Granja: St. Vincent Ferrer, Brgy. La Granja, La Carlota.
Fr. Jitchel D. Villar 2005-2007:was assigned as Parochial Vicar of Silay: San Diego Parish, Silay City.
19. Fr. Samuel E. Balboa 2007- (as of February 2011) 20. Fr. Tomas Tan
VIII. Religious vocations of men and women who were from Our Lady of the Pillar Parish, Brgy. Ma-ao, Bago City:
1. Fr. Rogelio Vinzon-Apurado
2. Fr. Edwin G. Cadena
3. Fr. Joeffrey Torillo- Flores.
4. Fr. Louie Patalinhog-Galbines
5. Fr. Dominic Dexter Malunes-Somcio
6. Fr. Tomas Estrella- Rito
Nota Bene:
The Catholic Directory of the Diocese of Bacolod 2008 indicated 1894 as the foundation of the Our Lady of the Pillar Catholic Community and refounded in 1938. The date 1894 was chosen as the date of its foundation as a parish taken into consideration the fact that on January 25, 1889, the petition to make Ma-ao an active mission or visita was approved (Echauz, trans. 1978). An active-mission meant that the community was not capable of supporting a permanent priest and thus could not be declared a parish unlike the parish-mission which the Religious could declare a parish per Archbishop Sancho’s precedence (Fernandez, 1988). In Handumanan, 2006, Fr. Antonio Saenz, OAR was assigned permanently in Ma-ao in 1894. Thus this date was chosen as its foundation. The process of parish establishment before 1917 was: 1. active-parish 2. mission-parish 3. parish. Ma-ao could not have been declared a parish before 1898 no permanent priest stayed here and because the Revolution overtook it. Thus was the reason that in March 4, 1968, it has to be formally elevated as a parish by Bishop Antonio Y. Fortich following the Code of Canon Law of 1917. Pictures and eye witnesses account confirmed the existence of this event.
After the 1898 Revolution, Ma-ao was deprived of its permanent priest until 1937 when Fr. Hiponia resided in the community, thus the term refounded 1938 in the Diocesan Directory. The researcher, though, use 1937 as the date of Ma-ao’s refounding using Fr. Hiponia’s date of permanent residency.
Introduction
The chronicle of the Ma-ao Parish was a chronicle of struggles from without and then from within. Before the Bacolod Diocese was established in 1933, the task of the priests were to convert the natives from their animistic beliefs. During the Aglipayan movement in the 1889, it was the threat of the Filipinized but separated from Rome Church. After Fr. Benjamin Hiponia’s term from 1937-1945, the struggle was within the church. The opinions of the clerics with their different skills and personalities against the economic and even political influence of the erudite parishioners.
These Janus struggles could have led to its disintegration, but like the Our Lady who manifested herself on the pillar, had led the parish to its solid ground.
The Phenomenological Church
In 1856, Governor Emilio Saravia and Fr. Fernando Cuenca, the parish priest of Talisay, petitioned the Insular Government to establish five mission areas at the foot of Kanla-on, one of these areas was Ma-ao. The petition was approved in 1876 and in 1878, the Parish priest of La Carlota, Fr. Andres Torres took care of the parish which included Ma-ao. On January 25, 1889, the petition to make Ma-ao an active mission or visita was approved (Echauz, trans. 1978).
Fr. Goya was the last Recollect to be assigned in Ma-ao when he left in September1898. He was later arrested by the Revolutionaries in November 1898 and was imprisoned together with other 35 Recollect priests (Handurawan, 2006). Records show that there seemed to be no permanent priest immediately after the 1898 revolution against Spain.
The original concrete church of the visita of Ma-ao which was built by the Spanish Recollects was located in the present plaza of Ma-ao. It was taken possession by the Aglipayans with the connivance of the municipal government when the Spanish priest, Fr. Tomas Goya, left and was later arrested by the revolutionaries. The Supreme Court decision of Barlin Vs Ramirez in 1906 which ordered the church in Lagonoy, Camarinez Sur, to be returned to the Catholic Church became a precedent and other cases of the claim were disposed of properly within two years (Shumacher, 1987). This decision led to the desertation by the Aglipayans of the catholic church. But they brought with them the original image of Our Lady of the Pillar from Zaragoza, Spain. They left behind, however, the church bell. The church was left to dilapidation because the intimidated-feeling of Catholics against the very powerful Aglipayans was intense. The original Our Lady of the Pillar image from Zaragoza, Spain could still be viewed at the Iglesia Filipina Independiente Church at Bonifacio St. and the original church bell could still be found at the bell tower of the Catholic church in Malunes St.
1933-1940. The two-decade -feeling of intimidation and abandonment led Mrs. Christina “Tinang” de Luzuriaga a devote Catholic, to put up another Catholic church, actually a chapel, at her lot at the front of the present parochial school and at the corner of Mabini-Torres St. The cemented-entrance-relic of the Church could still be seen today (February 2011). Her husband was a the Sacristan of the Spanish priest from La Carlota. It was only in 1934 that a permanent priest was identified in the person of the secular Filipino priest, Fr. Blas Parcon, who took over spiritual upkeep of the meagre Catholics of Ma-ao. He stayed as pastor here until 1937.
In 1937 Fr. Benjamin Hiponia was assigned at the parish of Ma-ao. The 50-sitter cemented church of Tinang was absconded and a bigger one was built on the lot donated by Mr. Felix Yulo, the owner of Hda. Prudencia. He has a son, Alberto “Nene” Yulo. His brother, Mr. Arcenio “Buk-an” Yulo had a house at the present (February 2011) lot of the Catholic Church. His house he labelled as the Crystal Arcade, it was the biggest house in Ma-ao. It was called as such because it was surrounded with glass windows, a very expensive and exquisite edifice during that time. The Crystal Arcade was later moved at its eastern side since on its original location was to be built the Ma-ao church with a cement base, galvanized roofing and wooden walls. The Crystal Arcade was used as a convent by Fr. Hiponia. The fiesta of the parish was transferred to December 30 for practical reason. Many people congregate during fiesta so it was easy to solemnize the sacramentals.
Fr. Amin, as he was fondly called, was a great missionary with a great aura of friendliness. He would go around Ma-ao with candies and medals. He used this as a strategy in winning the family. At this time Ma-ao was predominantly Aglipayan since Bago was a Bastion of Aglipayanism and many rich family converted to the Filipinized church. He would first approach the kids and gave them candies or medals, after winning the kid’s confidence and disarming the parents hesitancy, he would queried from them why they had not seen them in church. Further saying that it would be nice to see them in church on Sundays. His spirituality and example had brought deeper spirituality among the faithful and conversions among those who are not. The devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and praying of the Rosary had became a family tradition during Fr. Amin’s time. He was considered by the faithful who knew him to be santolon, a title reserved only to a holy man that he was. The constant conversion to the Catholic church from Aglipayanism through Fr. Amin’s life could be testified by living converts who are now (February 2011) very senior but active members of the parish.
1941-1950. It was his initiative of bringing with him in carabao-driven carts the baptismal records to the mountains which saved the books from being destroyed. The Church and the Crystal Arcade convent were burnt down by the Japanese in World War II. Fr. Amin with the generous contribution from the faithful built the new church after the war. Some of those who contributed to the construction were Mr. Fernando Arguelles, Ms. Emma Del Castillo (then owner of Florida), Mr. Tranquilino Valderama (a relative of Fr. Amin), Mr. Poblador (then owner of Concordia), Mr. Carlos Dreyfus, and others. Fr. Briccio Bruci was a good musician. He played the violin well. The popular band of Anthony Guy, Manhattan Band, assisted in the Mass during fiesta.
Fr. Wilfredo Saldajeno was assigned as a young parish priest in Ma-ao from Bais Parish, Negros Oriental. He was the one who bought a house for Mr. Dominador Torres at the Malunes compound near the Parish Church. He wanted him to be near the church since he was acting as a sacristan. The Church was wooden.
1951-1960. Fr. Antonio Mamigo initiated the construction of the new convent. Fr. Wilfredo Saldajeno renovated the church with the help of the parishioners. He put the extended decorative blocks on both sides of the façade and the angular-like-structure at the front of the church’s belfry which he based from the Cadiz church. He became the spark-plug of Barangay sang Virgen which led to its rapid development.
1961-1970. Fr. Orville’s memorable contribution to Ma-ao community was the establishment of the Parochial School. The cross of the belfry was a project of Fr. Orville. The construction of the church was made possible mainly by the generosity of Mr. Felix Yulo and other parishioners. During his time, Ma-ao was formally declared a parish on March 4, 1968 by the authority of the 1917 Code of Canon Law. As mentioned in the Nota Bene of the profile, the Ma-ao Christian Community was already considered a parish by virtue of the fact that since a mission parish was capable of supporting a priest, the religious missionary like the Recollects could declare it as a parish.
On April 1968, the first batch of graduates of Our Lady of the Pillar Academy High School celebrated their graduation. Fr. Orville, the firearm-owner padre, had his share of conflicts with the erudite parishioners which in no occasion led to pugnaciousness. In his time the fiesta was transferred to its original date of October 12.
In 1965 Fr. Vicente Montinola assumed the rain of the parish from Fr. Orville. He also took care of the ministry of Central Ma-ao. The growing population of the students drove Fr. Itik to construct a two-storey and four-classroom building. He then constructed the new convent for the old one was used as an office of OLPA. Fr. Itik was known to be very generous, he would go beyond his priestly duties to help those who are truly in need in their economic situation. A rich gentleman by birth being a descendant of the Montinola clan of Victorias, Fr. Itik generally made material projects through his personal pocket. He felt awkward in asking help from others but he did not refuse those who willingly share their blessings for the church.
Fr. Dediles was responsible for making the agreement with Mr. Emilio Hilado for the use of his lot along Mabini street, just at the back of the church. Fr. Dediles was just done celebrating Mass at Brgy. Ilijan when on board a Volkswagon, Fr. Woodrow Gubuan and Fr. Rufino Suplido, the Vicar General, informed him of the priest reshuffling.
1971-1980. The bespectackled Kabankalanon was assigned in Ma-ao in 1975. He was an idealistic and scholarly prelate. The former editor of the UST school paper, The Varsitarian and a 5’ 11” basketball player seemed to have a lot under his sleeves and a lot more between his ears. He started the education of the parishioners on their rights and duties. He put more premium on people’s organization if they were to protect their God-given dignity.
During his term, he initiated the construction of two office building of OLPA, the Library and Laboratory and the construction of the Cafeteria with the monetary assistance of the Benedictine sisters. The OLPA farm was also purchased for the livelihood projects of the parishioners. He put up vocational trainings to help augment the income of the parishioners. There was the practical electricity which led many Ma-aonons to work at CENECO; the dress-making project and hollow block manufacturing also helped parishioners. His Ma-ong pants and katsa shirt productions became popular too. He even initiated the night class in
OLPA to cater for those who were busy in the morning or for those adults who wanted to finish high school and for youngsters who wanted to graduate with not much academic pressure.
In 1980 the structural church was demolished to give way to a bigger church which was sponsored by the then Ambassador Roberto S. Benedicto. Fr. Woodrow Gubuan, the parish priest, was involved in the Hda. San Juan Del Monte take over by the farmers. These farmers had a dialogue with the military officials and Bishop Antonio Y. Fortich at the Bago City coliseum but were herded to military trucks and imprisoned. This infuriated Bishop Fortich and Ambasssador Benedicto. The latter discontinued the construction of the Ma-ao church which was yet at the basic structure stage of pillars and roofing.
The parishioners through the leadership and request of Fr. Gubuan continued the construction through dagyaw sa Ma-ao, a free labor effort of the parishioners. Thus was the story of a beautiful bamboo trimmed altar and pillars of the Ma-ao parish church. But the story of this parish is not only about the evolution of the physical structure it is more about the growth of human persons in faith and solidarity which gradually developed through in the following decades. But before this, the parish of Our Lady of the Pillar had passed through rough and trying times but breezed through triumphantly with the obvious guidance of God’s grace and the intercession of the Lady of the Pillar who was also the patroness of Spain.
The Kristianong Katilingbans were organized in different puroks , sitios and haciendas which were divided inot different Areas. The holding of Panimbahons strengthened the faith of the faithful in this confusing and trying times.
1981-1990. The year 1981 was the most ecstatic in the life of the parishioners. It was the year of Pope John Paul II’s visit to Bacolod. The parishioners’ prospect of seeing the Pope personally on February 21, 1981 was electrifying. Talks on the life of Lolek in Poland under the German totalitarian regime were given to schools and parish area communities. Tutus Tuus t-shirts were printed and sold to the parishioners. With the able guidance of Fr. Wood, a great number of delegates were represented in the Pope’s visit.
Fr. Roberto Carillo’s amiable approach to the hacienda Areas won him good points and he continued the parish program of Fr. Wood. The musical dexterity of Fr. Abenir Pineda, his Parochial Vicar, helped a lot in animating the liturgical celebrations. Fr. Abe was able to represent OLPA choir into the regional competition. Fr. Telesforo Neri came with a talent of organizing the youth which brought to the church the kanto boys and out-of-school-youths through sports. He organized basketball leagues.
The Charismatic Movement became very popular in 1981. It was led by a gifted speaker and amiable leader, Mr Enrique Araneta. Every Sunday evening from seven P.M. to 12 Midnight people from Central Ma-ao and neighboring barangays and haciendas congregate in Ma-ao Parish Church. Cane trucks which were used to transport mga Charismatic, as the members were called, filled the public plaza. It was a phenomenal movement in this parish. There were numerous stories of real conversions and deepening of faith. Many young people were encouraged to consider the religious life. One of the products of this movement was Fr. Louie Galbines. Conversions from different sects to the Catholic fold were observed courtesy of this Spiritual Renewal through the Life in the Spirit Seminars.
1991-2000. Fr. Ibezate was assigned in Ma-ao for a short period of time. He successfully continued the existing programs and continued on celebrating the scheduled Masses in different Areas. Fr. Gerson Balitor took over the management of the parish from Fr. Ibezate in May 8, 1992. Fr. Gerson organized the Gamay nga Katilingban sang Simbahan (GKS) in the haciendas. He organized the youth in Martial Arts activities like Aikido, Arnis and baseball club. The baseball club won inter-city games with no government support. He initiated the building of a two-storey convent.
Fr. Gerson had a share of clash with some personalities who even wrote a scathing letter against him and distributed them parish-wide. The reason for the authors of the letter could border on the valid call for reform and personal interests. Fr. Gerson’s feeling, he compared to the feeling of Frs. Dediles and Carillo, that of never wishing to go back to Ma-ao parish. The feeling could be mutual for the persons involved but he would always remember the incident as one that he would bring with him to his grave with the wish of goodness to them. For he believed they were good, some even were Papal Awardees of St, Sylvester. This award was always given for those who defend the church and her cause in times of conflict and scandal.
A blunder was done by a group of parishioners who believed in the church as hierarchical church not a democratic one. That is, in problems like the one they had, it should have been referred to the bishop not to the emotion of a certain number of parishioners who seemed to have no fault of their own. The second letter of support for Fr. Gerson was scathing to the first letter writers who had the frankness to attached their names on it. In fairness some were deceived to affix their names on it. But all these were wrong in the final analysis because the active members of the church forgot the basic virtue of charity. This part of history should be written and recalled to teach the next generations that some had not forgotten the culture of anti-Catholic priest sentiment that was very strong in Ma-ao parish during the Spanish Revolution. Since Bago was the bastion of the Filipinized church during that time.
2001-2009. Fr. Orlando Gargar came with a good background of people and a good sense of history of the parish having been assigned as a seminarian and had discussed with Fr. Balitor. First he did was to correct and ingrain the virtue of honesty in parish receipt issuance. He finished the construction of the convent. He personally fitted most of the tiles on the flooring of the convent and had the floor of the church fitted with clean-looking tiles. He also personally fixed and book bound the parish books of baptism, marriage and death. He concentrated in sacramentats and sacramentals at Ma-ao proper and assigned his assistant for the areas. He had a parish financial report done before he went to his next assignment at Victorias parish.
Fr. Samuel Balboa took over the parish ministry after Fr. Gargar. The young and loquacious cleric used his gift of speech to advanced Christian virtues in his sermons. He emphasized the construction of decent chapels in the community areas. He did not allow himself to be influenced by local politicians on church matters. Unfortunately some church members who did not want the church bell rang for reason of noise pollution seemed to have their way forgetting the cultural, spiritual and historical aspects of it.
The Church of the Poor
The livelihood programs and social struggles of the clerics and parishioners in this parish had been an obvious manifestation of this church of the poor. The community organization in far-flung haciendas provided them easier access to the church. The conflicts in the 1970s and 1980s with the affluent, had shown that the parish community especially the priests had taken the side of the poor.
SOURCES AND BIBLIOGRAPHY:
A. Primary Sources
A.1. Unpublished Documents:
1. Books of Baptismal Records of Our Lady of the Pillar Parish
2. Books Marriage Records of Our Lady of the Pillar Parish
3. Books of Death Records Our Lady of the Pillar Parish
4. Books of Appointments of Priests of the Diocese of Bacolod
5. Books of Profile of Priests of the Diocese of Bacolod
6. Unpublished memoir of the Parish and OLPA courtesy of Mrs. Candelaria Magdaet- Balboa.
A.2. Interviews:
1. Fr. Louie Galbines at Brgy. Punta Taytay on March 3, 2009. Fr. Louie had been a Sacristan of Our lady of the Pillar since he was in grade four in 1977. He was active in the parish until 1992 when he entered the Seminary.
2. Fr. Gerson Balitor at his residence in Sum-ag on March 3, 2009. Fr. Balitor was parish priest of Ma-ao from 1992-2001.
3. Fr. Orlando Gargar at Our Lady of Victory Parish Convent, Victorias City on March 28, 2009. Fr. Gargar was parish priest of Ma-ao from 2001-2007.
4. Fr. Samuel Balboa at La Herencia Subd., Bacolod City on April 13, 2009.
5. Mr. Dominador Torres at his residence in Purok Riverside on February 14, 2009. Mr. Torres had been very active in the parish after his conversion from Aglipayanism in late 1930’s.
6. Fr. Wilfredo Saldajeno at the Domus Dei, Lupit , Bacolod City on April 9, 2009. Fr. Willy had been a parish priest of Ma-ao parish.
5. Mr. Roger
A. 3. Plaques, Monuments, Physical Evidence of Historical Value
1. The ruins of the former Catholic church at Mabini-Torres St., Ma-ao, Bago, City.
2. The Church bells with date on them
3. The original Our Lady of the Pillar statue from Zaragoza, Spain at the Aglipayan Church.
`B. Secondary Sources:
B.1. Books:
1. Romero, Ma. Fe Hernaez. Negros Occidental Between Two Powers (1888- 1909). Negros Occidental Historical Commission, Bacolod City, 1974.
B.2. Memoirs, Magazines and Articles:
1. Our Lady of the Pillar Fiesta Program, 1981
2.
C. Websites:
1. Diocese of Bacolod website:
2. Profile and History of Tanjay
3.
Fr. Jesús Cortes 1972
15. Fr. Woodrow Gubuan; 1976-1984
Parochial Vicars:
14. 1. Fr. Nomeriano Barrios
14. 2. Fr. Norberto Contreras
14. 3. Fr. Abenir G. Pineda
16. Fr. Roberto C. Carillo 1984-1990
Parochial Vicars:
Fr. Abenir G. Pineda
Fr. Telesfor Neri
17. Fr. Felixberto R. Ibezate 1990-1992
18. Fr. Gerson T. Balitor 1992-2001
Parochial Vicars:
18. 1. Fr. Belarmino Obordo,
18. 2. Fr. Edwin Mirano
18. 3. Fr. Aniceto A. Buenafe Jr.
19. Fr. Orlando T. Gargar 2001-2007
Parochial Vicars:
19.1. Fr. Thomas G. Tan
19.2. Fr. Jitchel D. Villar
20. Fr. Samuel E. Balboa 2007- (as of February 2011)
by Gil Pellejo, Phd
OUR LADY OF THE PILLAR PARISH PROFILE:
I. Our Lady of the Pillar Parish (Foundation:1894; Refounded 1937; Elevated as a Parish 1968)
II. Address: Malunes St., Brgy. Ma-ao, Bago City, Negros Occidental 6101
III. Lot: Donated by Mr. Felix Yulo and Family
IV. Titular: Our Lady of the Pillar
V. Feast Day: October 12
VI. Vicariate: Bago
VII. Chronology of Assigned Priests at Our Lady of the Pillar Parish:
Ma-ao parish was formerly a Mission Area (Visita) of La Carlota:
Fr. Andres Torres 1880-1882
Ma-ao parish was formerly a Mission Area (Visita) of Bago:
Fr. Manuel Belloso 1882-1883
Fr. Ramon Alegria 1883-1884
Ma-ao during this time was still named as Zaragoza and was located at the present Hda. Zaragoza in Brgy. Jorge Araneta, Bago City. It was only during the time of the Following Recollects that Zaragoza was transferred to the present (February 2011) site and renamed Ma-ao:
1. Fr. Florentino Saenz,OAR Oct. 1894-June 1895 (Fr. Saenz was the first Recollect priest to be assigned permanently in Ma-ao)
2. Fr. Gregorio Albo, OAR June-Dec. 1895
3. Antonio Hernandez,OAR Nov. 1896-Apr.1898
4. Fr. Benito Condon, OAR Apr.-Sept. 1898
5. Fr. Tomas Goya, OAR Sept 1898-1899 ( Fr. Goya was the last Recollect priest to be assigned in Ma-ao)
After the 1898 Revolution records of priests assigned in Ma-ao seemed to be unavailable. Bago was considered the bastion of the Aglipayan movement and the anti-friar and anti-Spanish sentiments were high. With great probability Ma-ao was put under Filipino secular priests who were not trained to make chronicles of their work. The vacuum could be a basis for another study.
The Diocese of Bacolod was created on May 16, 1933:
6. Fr. Blas Parcon 1934-1937 (Fr. Blas was a Filipno secular priest assigned in Ma-ao from Bago but did not reside permanently)
7. Fr. Benjamin Hiponia Oct. 26,1937: June 4,1947: was assigned as parish priest of La Carlota: Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage, La Carlota City.
Parochial Vicar:
Fr. Roque Acebedo 1946-1949 (was asked by Fr. Amin to help him in Ma-ao because Fr. Broce left Ma-ao; he has no record in the Priests Profile of the Diocese of Bacolod)
8. Fr. Briccio Broce 1947-Feb. 26, 1949 (was from San Carlos, he was an uncle of Mr. Estanislao Apurado, father of Fr. Roger Apurado; he has no record in the Priests Profile of the Diocese of Bacolod)
9. Fr. Antonio Mamigo, July 23, 1950-1953(was unlce of Fr. Santes)
10. Fr. Wilfredo G. Saldejeno 1953-1961: was assigned as Parish Priest of Sto. Nino Parish, Cadiz.
11. Fr. Orville Giguinto(POM) April 16, 1961-1965: went into a sabbatical leave.
Parish (March 4, 1968 per Code of Canon Law 1917):
12. Fr. Vicente Montinola Feb. 28, 1965-1969: was assigned as parish priest of La Castellana.
Parochial Vicar:
Fr. Francisco Sermona 1966-1967: was assigned as Parochial Vicar of Hinigaran: St. Mary Magdalene Parish, Municipality of hinigaran.
Fr. Antonio M. Sedeño 1967-1969: was assigned as Parochial Vicar at Taculing: San Antonio Abad Parish, Brgy. Taculing, Bacolod City.
13. Fr. Vicente Dediles 1969-1975: was assigned as Chaplain of Central Manapla.
Fr. Gregorio Gigomo 1971-1976:
14. Fr. Woodrow Gubuan; 1975-1984: went to Rome for a study leave and then the U.S. as a Guest priest.
Parochial Vicars:
Fr. Nomeriano Barrios(POM) 1976-1978: went on a sabbatical leave; later was able to obtain a dispensation and his marriage was solemnized by Fr. Gubuan.
Fr. Norberto Contreras 1978-1981: was transferred as Parochial Vicar of San Sebastián Cathedral Parish, Bacolod City.
Fr. Abenir G. Pineda 1981-9184: was assigned as Procurator and Music director of Sacred Heart Seminary, Lupit, Bacolod City.
15. Fr. Roberto C. Carillo 1984-1990: went to Australia as a
Visiting priest.
Parochial Vicars:
Fr. Abenir G. Pineda 1981-1984:was assigned to the Sacred Heart Seminary as Procurator and Music Director.
Fr. Telesforo J. Neri Aug. 16,1988-June 8,1989: was assigned as Parochial Vicar of Hinigaran: St. Mary Magdalene Parish, Municipality of Hinigaran.
16. Fr. Felixberto R. Ibezate May 21, 1990-May 8, 1992: was assigned to Western Visayas Regional Hospital Chaplaincy.
17. Fr. Gerson T. Balitor May 8, 1992-September 17,2001: was assigned as parish priest of Murcia: Our Lady of Immaculate Concepcion Parish, Municipality of Murcia.
Parochial Vicar:
Fr. Belarmino Obordo, April 1993-Oct. 1993: was assigned to Victorias: Our Lady of Victory Parish, Hinigaran Municipality.
Fr. Edwin B. Mirano (POM) June 10, 1994-1995: went on a sabbatical leave.
Fr. Aniceto A. Buenafe Jr. Jan, 24, 1995-1996: was assigned as Parochial Vicar of Villamonte: Our Lady of Immaculate Concepción Parish, Brgy. Villamonte, Bacolod City.
18. Fr. Orlando T. Gargar 2001-2007: was assigned as Parish Priest of Victorias: Our Lady of Victory Parish, Victorias City.
Parochial Vicars:
Fr. Thomas G. Tan 2001-2005: was assigned as Chaplain of La Granja: St. Vincent Ferrer, Brgy. La Granja, La Carlota.
Fr. Jitchel D. Villar 2005-2007:was assigned as Parochial Vicar of Silay: San Diego Parish, Silay City.
19. Fr. Samuel E. Balboa 2007- (as of February 2011) 20. Fr. Tomas Tan
VIII. Religious vocations of men and women who were from Our Lady of the Pillar Parish, Brgy. Ma-ao, Bago City:
1. Fr. Rogelio Vinzon-Apurado
2. Fr. Edwin G. Cadena
3. Fr. Joeffrey Torillo- Flores.
4. Fr. Louie Patalinhog-Galbines
5. Fr. Dominic Dexter Malunes-Somcio
6. Fr. Tomas Estrella- Rito
Nota Bene:
The Catholic Directory of the Diocese of Bacolod 2008 indicated 1894 as the foundation of the Our Lady of the Pillar Catholic Community and refounded in 1938. The date 1894 was chosen as the date of its foundation as a parish taken into consideration the fact that on January 25, 1889, the petition to make Ma-ao an active mission or visita was approved (Echauz, trans. 1978). An active-mission meant that the community was not capable of supporting a permanent priest and thus could not be declared a parish unlike the parish-mission which the Religious could declare a parish per Archbishop Sancho’s precedence (Fernandez, 1988). In Handumanan, 2006, Fr. Antonio Saenz, OAR was assigned permanently in Ma-ao in 1894. Thus this date was chosen as its foundation. The process of parish establishment before 1917 was: 1. active-parish 2. mission-parish 3. parish. Ma-ao could not have been declared a parish before 1898 no permanent priest stayed here and because the Revolution overtook it. Thus was the reason that in March 4, 1968, it has to be formally elevated as a parish by Bishop Antonio Y. Fortich following the Code of Canon Law of 1917. Pictures and eye witnesses account confirmed the existence of this event.
After the 1898 Revolution, Ma-ao was deprived of its permanent priest until 1937 when Fr. Hiponia resided in the community, thus the term refounded 1938 in the Diocesan Directory. The researcher, though, use 1937 as the date of Ma-ao’s refounding using Fr. Hiponia’s date of permanent residency.
Introduction
The chronicle of the Ma-ao Parish was a chronicle of struggles from without and then from within. Before the Bacolod Diocese was established in 1933, the task of the priests were to convert the natives from their animistic beliefs. During the Aglipayan movement in the 1889, it was the threat of the Filipinized but separated from Rome Church. After Fr. Benjamin Hiponia’s term from 1937-1945, the struggle was within the church. The opinions of the clerics with their different skills and personalities against the economic and even political influence of the erudite parishioners.
These Janus struggles could have led to its disintegration, but like the Our Lady who manifested herself on the pillar, had led the parish to its solid ground.
The Phenomenological Church
In 1856, Governor Emilio Saravia and Fr. Fernando Cuenca, the parish priest of Talisay, petitioned the Insular Government to establish five mission areas at the foot of Kanla-on, one of these areas was Ma-ao. The petition was approved in 1876 and in 1878, the Parish priest of La Carlota, Fr. Andres Torres took care of the parish which included Ma-ao. On January 25, 1889, the petition to make Ma-ao an active mission or visita was approved (Echauz, trans. 1978).
Fr. Goya was the last Recollect to be assigned in Ma-ao when he left in September1898. He was later arrested by the Revolutionaries in November 1898 and was imprisoned together with other 35 Recollect priests (Handurawan, 2006). Records show that there seemed to be no permanent priest immediately after the 1898 revolution against Spain.
The original concrete church of the visita of Ma-ao which was built by the Spanish Recollects was located in the present plaza of Ma-ao. It was taken possession by the Aglipayans with the connivance of the municipal government when the Spanish priest, Fr. Tomas Goya, left and was later arrested by the revolutionaries. The Supreme Court decision of Barlin Vs Ramirez in 1906 which ordered the church in Lagonoy, Camarinez Sur, to be returned to the Catholic Church became a precedent and other cases of the claim were disposed of properly within two years (Shumacher, 1987). This decision led to the desertation by the Aglipayans of the catholic church. But they brought with them the original image of Our Lady of the Pillar from Zaragoza, Spain. They left behind, however, the church bell. The church was left to dilapidation because the intimidated-feeling of Catholics against the very powerful Aglipayans was intense. The original Our Lady of the Pillar image from Zaragoza, Spain could still be viewed at the Iglesia Filipina Independiente Church at Bonifacio St. and the original church bell could still be found at the bell tower of the Catholic church in Malunes St.
1933-1940. The two-decade -feeling of intimidation and abandonment led Mrs. Christina “Tinang” de Luzuriaga a devote Catholic, to put up another Catholic church, actually a chapel, at her lot at the front of the present parochial school and at the corner of Mabini-Torres St. The cemented-entrance-relic of the Church could still be seen today (February 2011). Her husband was a the Sacristan of the Spanish priest from La Carlota. It was only in 1934 that a permanent priest was identified in the person of the secular Filipino priest, Fr. Blas Parcon, who took over spiritual upkeep of the meagre Catholics of Ma-ao. He stayed as pastor here until 1937.
In 1937 Fr. Benjamin Hiponia was assigned at the parish of Ma-ao. The 50-sitter cemented church of Tinang was absconded and a bigger one was built on the lot donated by Mr. Felix Yulo, the owner of Hda. Prudencia. He has a son, Alberto “Nene” Yulo. His brother, Mr. Arcenio “Buk-an” Yulo had a house at the present (February 2011) lot of the Catholic Church. His house he labelled as the Crystal Arcade, it was the biggest house in Ma-ao. It was called as such because it was surrounded with glass windows, a very expensive and exquisite edifice during that time. The Crystal Arcade was later moved at its eastern side since on its original location was to be built the Ma-ao church with a cement base, galvanized roofing and wooden walls. The Crystal Arcade was used as a convent by Fr. Hiponia. The fiesta of the parish was transferred to December 30 for practical reason. Many people congregate during fiesta so it was easy to solemnize the sacramentals.
Fr. Amin, as he was fondly called, was a great missionary with a great aura of friendliness. He would go around Ma-ao with candies and medals. He used this as a strategy in winning the family. At this time Ma-ao was predominantly Aglipayan since Bago was a Bastion of Aglipayanism and many rich family converted to the Filipinized church. He would first approach the kids and gave them candies or medals, after winning the kid’s confidence and disarming the parents hesitancy, he would queried from them why they had not seen them in church. Further saying that it would be nice to see them in church on Sundays. His spirituality and example had brought deeper spirituality among the faithful and conversions among those who are not. The devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and praying of the Rosary had became a family tradition during Fr. Amin’s time. He was considered by the faithful who knew him to be santolon, a title reserved only to a holy man that he was. The constant conversion to the Catholic church from Aglipayanism through Fr. Amin’s life could be testified by living converts who are now (February 2011) very senior but active members of the parish.
1941-1950. It was his initiative of bringing with him in carabao-driven carts the baptismal records to the mountains which saved the books from being destroyed. The Church and the Crystal Arcade convent were burnt down by the Japanese in World War II. Fr. Amin with the generous contribution from the faithful built the new church after the war. Some of those who contributed to the construction were Mr. Fernando Arguelles, Ms. Emma Del Castillo (then owner of Florida), Mr. Tranquilino Valderama (a relative of Fr. Amin), Mr. Poblador (then owner of Concordia), Mr. Carlos Dreyfus, and others. Fr. Briccio Bruci was a good musician. He played the violin well. The popular band of Anthony Guy, Manhattan Band, assisted in the Mass during fiesta.
Fr. Wilfredo Saldajeno was assigned as a young parish priest in Ma-ao from Bais Parish, Negros Oriental. He was the one who bought a house for Mr. Dominador Torres at the Malunes compound near the Parish Church. He wanted him to be near the church since he was acting as a sacristan. The Church was wooden.
1951-1960. Fr. Antonio Mamigo initiated the construction of the new convent. Fr. Wilfredo Saldajeno renovated the church with the help of the parishioners. He put the extended decorative blocks on both sides of the façade and the angular-like-structure at the front of the church’s belfry which he based from the Cadiz church. He became the spark-plug of Barangay sang Virgen which led to its rapid development.
1961-1970. Fr. Orville’s memorable contribution to Ma-ao community was the establishment of the Parochial School. The cross of the belfry was a project of Fr. Orville. The construction of the church was made possible mainly by the generosity of Mr. Felix Yulo and other parishioners. During his time, Ma-ao was formally declared a parish on March 4, 1968 by the authority of the 1917 Code of Canon Law. As mentioned in the Nota Bene of the profile, the Ma-ao Christian Community was already considered a parish by virtue of the fact that since a mission parish was capable of supporting a priest, the religious missionary like the Recollects could declare it as a parish.
On April 1968, the first batch of graduates of Our Lady of the Pillar Academy High School celebrated their graduation. Fr. Orville, the firearm-owner padre, had his share of conflicts with the erudite parishioners which in no occasion led to pugnaciousness. In his time the fiesta was transferred to its original date of October 12.
In 1965 Fr. Vicente Montinola assumed the rain of the parish from Fr. Orville. He also took care of the ministry of Central Ma-ao. The growing population of the students drove Fr. Itik to construct a two-storey and four-classroom building. He then constructed the new convent for the old one was used as an office of OLPA. Fr. Itik was known to be very generous, he would go beyond his priestly duties to help those who are truly in need in their economic situation. A rich gentleman by birth being a descendant of the Montinola clan of Victorias, Fr. Itik generally made material projects through his personal pocket. He felt awkward in asking help from others but he did not refuse those who willingly share their blessings for the church.
Fr. Dediles was responsible for making the agreement with Mr. Emilio Hilado for the use of his lot along Mabini street, just at the back of the church. Fr. Dediles was just done celebrating Mass at Brgy. Ilijan when on board a Volkswagon, Fr. Woodrow Gubuan and Fr. Rufino Suplido, the Vicar General, informed him of the priest reshuffling.
1971-1980. The bespectackled Kabankalanon was assigned in Ma-ao in 1975. He was an idealistic and scholarly prelate. The former editor of the UST school paper, The Varsitarian and a 5’ 11” basketball player seemed to have a lot under his sleeves and a lot more between his ears. He started the education of the parishioners on their rights and duties. He put more premium on people’s organization if they were to protect their God-given dignity.
During his term, he initiated the construction of two office building of OLPA, the Library and Laboratory and the construction of the Cafeteria with the monetary assistance of the Benedictine sisters. The OLPA farm was also purchased for the livelihood projects of the parishioners. He put up vocational trainings to help augment the income of the parishioners. There was the practical electricity which led many Ma-aonons to work at CENECO; the dress-making project and hollow block manufacturing also helped parishioners. His Ma-ong pants and katsa shirt productions became popular too. He even initiated the night class in
OLPA to cater for those who were busy in the morning or for those adults who wanted to finish high school and for youngsters who wanted to graduate with not much academic pressure.
In 1980 the structural church was demolished to give way to a bigger church which was sponsored by the then Ambassador Roberto S. Benedicto. Fr. Woodrow Gubuan, the parish priest, was involved in the Hda. San Juan Del Monte take over by the farmers. These farmers had a dialogue with the military officials and Bishop Antonio Y. Fortich at the Bago City coliseum but were herded to military trucks and imprisoned. This infuriated Bishop Fortich and Ambasssador Benedicto. The latter discontinued the construction of the Ma-ao church which was yet at the basic structure stage of pillars and roofing.
The parishioners through the leadership and request of Fr. Gubuan continued the construction through dagyaw sa Ma-ao, a free labor effort of the parishioners. Thus was the story of a beautiful bamboo trimmed altar and pillars of the Ma-ao parish church. But the story of this parish is not only about the evolution of the physical structure it is more about the growth of human persons in faith and solidarity which gradually developed through in the following decades. But before this, the parish of Our Lady of the Pillar had passed through rough and trying times but breezed through triumphantly with the obvious guidance of God’s grace and the intercession of the Lady of the Pillar who was also the patroness of Spain.
The Kristianong Katilingbans were organized in different puroks , sitios and haciendas which were divided inot different Areas. The holding of Panimbahons strengthened the faith of the faithful in this confusing and trying times.
1981-1990. The year 1981 was the most ecstatic in the life of the parishioners. It was the year of Pope John Paul II’s visit to Bacolod. The parishioners’ prospect of seeing the Pope personally on February 21, 1981 was electrifying. Talks on the life of Lolek in Poland under the German totalitarian regime were given to schools and parish area communities. Tutus Tuus t-shirts were printed and sold to the parishioners. With the able guidance of Fr. Wood, a great number of delegates were represented in the Pope’s visit.
Fr. Roberto Carillo’s amiable approach to the hacienda Areas won him good points and he continued the parish program of Fr. Wood. The musical dexterity of Fr. Abenir Pineda, his Parochial Vicar, helped a lot in animating the liturgical celebrations. Fr. Abe was able to represent OLPA choir into the regional competition. Fr. Telesforo Neri came with a talent of organizing the youth which brought to the church the kanto boys and out-of-school-youths through sports. He organized basketball leagues.
The Charismatic Movement became very popular in 1981. It was led by a gifted speaker and amiable leader, Mr Enrique Araneta. Every Sunday evening from seven P.M. to 12 Midnight people from Central Ma-ao and neighboring barangays and haciendas congregate in Ma-ao Parish Church. Cane trucks which were used to transport mga Charismatic, as the members were called, filled the public plaza. It was a phenomenal movement in this parish. There were numerous stories of real conversions and deepening of faith. Many young people were encouraged to consider the religious life. One of the products of this movement was Fr. Louie Galbines. Conversions from different sects to the Catholic fold were observed courtesy of this Spiritual Renewal through the Life in the Spirit Seminars.
1991-2000. Fr. Ibezate was assigned in Ma-ao for a short period of time. He successfully continued the existing programs and continued on celebrating the scheduled Masses in different Areas. Fr. Gerson Balitor took over the management of the parish from Fr. Ibezate in May 8, 1992. Fr. Gerson organized the Gamay nga Katilingban sang Simbahan (GKS) in the haciendas. He organized the youth in Martial Arts activities like Aikido, Arnis and baseball club. The baseball club won inter-city games with no government support. He initiated the building of a two-storey convent.
Fr. Gerson had a share of clash with some personalities who even wrote a scathing letter against him and distributed them parish-wide. The reason for the authors of the letter could border on the valid call for reform and personal interests. Fr. Gerson’s feeling, he compared to the feeling of Frs. Dediles and Carillo, that of never wishing to go back to Ma-ao parish. The feeling could be mutual for the persons involved but he would always remember the incident as one that he would bring with him to his grave with the wish of goodness to them. For he believed they were good, some even were Papal Awardees of St, Sylvester. This award was always given for those who defend the church and her cause in times of conflict and scandal.
A blunder was done by a group of parishioners who believed in the church as hierarchical church not a democratic one. That is, in problems like the one they had, it should have been referred to the bishop not to the emotion of a certain number of parishioners who seemed to have no fault of their own. The second letter of support for Fr. Gerson was scathing to the first letter writers who had the frankness to attached their names on it. In fairness some were deceived to affix their names on it. But all these were wrong in the final analysis because the active members of the church forgot the basic virtue of charity. This part of history should be written and recalled to teach the next generations that some had not forgotten the culture of anti-Catholic priest sentiment that was very strong in Ma-ao parish during the Spanish Revolution. Since Bago was the bastion of the Filipinized church during that time.
2001-2009. Fr. Orlando Gargar came with a good background of people and a good sense of history of the parish having been assigned as a seminarian and had discussed with Fr. Balitor. First he did was to correct and ingrain the virtue of honesty in parish receipt issuance. He finished the construction of the convent. He personally fitted most of the tiles on the flooring of the convent and had the floor of the church fitted with clean-looking tiles. He also personally fixed and book bound the parish books of baptism, marriage and death. He concentrated in sacramentats and sacramentals at Ma-ao proper and assigned his assistant for the areas. He had a parish financial report done before he went to his next assignment at Victorias parish.
Fr. Samuel Balboa took over the parish ministry after Fr. Gargar. The young and loquacious cleric used his gift of speech to advanced Christian virtues in his sermons. He emphasized the construction of decent chapels in the community areas. He did not allow himself to be influenced by local politicians on church matters. Unfortunately some church members who did not want the church bell rang for reason of noise pollution seemed to have their way forgetting the cultural, spiritual and historical aspects of it.
The Church of the Poor
The livelihood programs and social struggles of the clerics and parishioners in this parish had been an obvious manifestation of this church of the poor. The community organization in far-flung haciendas provided them easier access to the church. The conflicts in the 1970s and 1980s with the affluent, had shown that the parish community especially the priests had taken the side of the poor.
SOURCES AND BIBLIOGRAPHY:
A. Primary Sources
A.1. Unpublished Documents:
1. Books of Baptismal Records of Our Lady of the Pillar Parish
2. Books Marriage Records of Our Lady of the Pillar Parish
3. Books of Death Records Our Lady of the Pillar Parish
4. Books of Appointments of Priests of the Diocese of Bacolod
5. Books of Profile of Priests of the Diocese of Bacolod
6. Unpublished memoir of the Parish and OLPA courtesy of Mrs. Candelaria Magdaet- Balboa.
A.2. Interviews:
1. Fr. Louie Galbines at Brgy. Punta Taytay on March 3, 2009. Fr. Louie had been a Sacristan of Our lady of the Pillar since he was in grade four in 1977. He was active in the parish until 1992 when he entered the Seminary.
2. Fr. Gerson Balitor at his residence in Sum-ag on March 3, 2009. Fr. Balitor was parish priest of Ma-ao from 1992-2001.
3. Fr. Orlando Gargar at Our Lady of Victory Parish Convent, Victorias City on March 28, 2009. Fr. Gargar was parish priest of Ma-ao from 2001-2007.
4. Fr. Samuel Balboa at La Herencia Subd., Bacolod City on April 13, 2009.
5. Mr. Dominador Torres at his residence in Purok Riverside on February 14, 2009. Mr. Torres had been very active in the parish after his conversion from Aglipayanism in late 1930’s.
6. Fr. Wilfredo Saldajeno at the Domus Dei, Lupit , Bacolod City on April 9, 2009. Fr. Willy had been a parish priest of Ma-ao parish.
5. Mr. Roger
A. 3. Plaques, Monuments, Physical Evidence of Historical Value
1. The ruins of the former Catholic church at Mabini-Torres St., Ma-ao, Bago, City.
2. The Church bells with date on them
3. The original Our Lady of the Pillar statue from Zaragoza, Spain at the Aglipayan Church.
`B. Secondary Sources:
B.1. Books:
1. Romero, Ma. Fe Hernaez. Negros Occidental Between Two Powers (1888- 1909). Negros Occidental Historical Commission, Bacolod City, 1974.
B.2. Memoirs, Magazines and Articles:
1. Our Lady of the Pillar Fiesta Program, 1981
2.
C. Websites:
1. Diocese of Bacolod website:
2. Profile and History of Tanjay
3.
Fr. Jesús Cortes 1972
15. Fr. Woodrow Gubuan; 1976-1984
Parochial Vicars:
14. 1. Fr. Nomeriano Barrios
14. 2. Fr. Norberto Contreras
14. 3. Fr. Abenir G. Pineda
16. Fr. Roberto C. Carillo 1984-1990
Parochial Vicars:
Fr. Abenir G. Pineda
Fr. Telesfor Neri
17. Fr. Felixberto R. Ibezate 1990-1992
18. Fr. Gerson T. Balitor 1992-2001
Parochial Vicars:
18. 1. Fr. Belarmino Obordo,
18. 2. Fr. Edwin Mirano
18. 3. Fr. Aniceto A. Buenafe Jr.
19. Fr. Orlando T. Gargar 2001-2007
Parochial Vicars:
19.1. Fr. Thomas G. Tan
19.2. Fr. Jitchel D. Villar
20. Fr. Samuel E. Balboa 2007- (as of February 2011)
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