By Social Communications Ministry

Published on July 6, 2025

ANDA, BOHOL— Archbishop Gilbert Garcera of Lipa has been elected as the new president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), according to an official report from CBCP News.

The election took place during the bishops’ 130th plenary assembly held in Anda, Bohol. Garcera is set to serve a two-year term as head of the influential body of Catholic leaders in the country. He may be re-elected for a second and final term.

Archbishop Garcera will succeed Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, who will complete his tenure as CBCP president in November this year.

Gar­cera, 65, has been the archbishop of Lipa since 2017.

Prior to his appointment there, he served as bishop of Daet for a decade. Known for his strong advocacy on family and youth ministry, Garcera has also played an active role in promoting social justice and pastoral care in rural communities.

He is regarded as a progressive voice within the Church, often engaging in dialogue on issues such as poverty, human rights, and environmental stewardship.

In the same assembly, Archbishop Julius Tonel of Zamboanga was elected as the new CBCP vice president. He will take over the position from Pasig Bishop Mylo Hubert Vergara.

The CBCP plays a vital role in shaping the Catholic Church’s policies and responses to key social and moral issues in the Philippines.

With his election, Garcera is expected to guide the CBCP through ongoing national discussions on faith, governance, and social justice.