By Dan Robin Santos

Published on June 25, 2024

ANTIPOLO CITY, PHILIPPINES  – The Roman Catholic Diocese of Antipolo celebrated its 41st anniversary of canonical establishment on June 25.

Bishop Ruperto C. Santos led a solemn Eucharistic celebration at 8 a.m. in the Antipolo Cathedral, now known as the International Shrine of Our Lady of Peace and Good Voyage.

The event was attended by over 120 priests representing churches across the diocese, which encompasses Rizal Province and Marikina City in Metro Manila.

During his homily, Bishop Ruperto highlighted the abundant blessings bestowed upon the diocese through God’s steadfast love and mercy. He urged the faithful to focus on God and heed His guidance both now and in the future. The celebration also included the consecration of the Pastoral Center located at the Diocesan Curia on Daang Bakal Road.

Established canonically on June 25, 1983, the Diocese of Antipolo was created by Pope John Paul II a day after announcing its formation in his Angelus message.

It has been shepherded by Bishop Protacio G. Gungon, Bishop Crisostomo Yalung, Bishop Gabriel V. Reyes, and Bishop Francisco M. de Leon before the current bishop, Bishop Ruperto C. Santos, took over. 

Auxiliary Bishop Nolly C. Buco and Bishop Santos continue to lead the diocese, which ranks as the third largest in the Philippines in terms of Catholic population, following the Archdiocese of Cebu and the Diocese of Malolos.