ILOILO City – A gradual transition phase in the Archdiocese of Jaro will see all pastoral assignments in Iloilo City, Iloilo Province, and Guimaras remain unchanged for the next six months to one year, according to newly appointed Archbishop Midyphil Billones.
The decision, announced in a circular issued on April 16, 2025, comes after Billones succeeded Archbishop Emeritus Jose Romeo O. Lazo.
The period of transition will serve as a time for listening, learning, and loving, as Billones embarks on a synodal journey to connect with the clergy and laity, embracing the archdiocese’s faith narrative, including its struggles and triumphs.
He emphasized the importance of listening, noting that the first duty of love is to listen, as echoed by theologian Teilhard de Chardin.
“Listening is key to understanding,” Billones said, adding that he intends to sit down with both young and old priests, as well as councils and the people of God across the archdiocese, to foster a deeper connection and dialogue.
Billones further outlined his vision for learning as a path toward leadership. Reflecting on the misconception that bishops have all the answers, he said, “When we listen to each other, we learn from one another, and together, we find the answers.”
During this transition phase, all pastoral assignments will continue as they are, with Billones urging all vicars, curia officials, councils, and parochial leaders to maintain their current roles. Any urgent decisions or necessary changes will be made only after consultation with relevant ecclesiastical bodies to ensure thoughtful, guided action./PN
