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Advocates Philippines
New Chapter In Cabanatuan: Bishop Prudencio Andaya Takes Over The Diocese
Photo credit: Diocese of Cabanatuan
Pope Francis has appointed Bishop Prudencio Andaya Jr. as the new bishop of the Diocese of Cabanatuan, succeeding Bishop Sofronio Bancud, whose resignation was officially accepted on December 8—his 76th birthday.
Bishop Andaya, now 65, isn’t new to serving the faithful. His appointment was announced on the 38th anniversary of his priestly ordination, a milestone that beautifully marked this new chapter in his mission.
From Zambia to Nueva Ecija
Born in Lubuagan, Kalinga—a town celebrated for its rich indigenous roots—Andaya was ordained in 1986 as part of the Congregation of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (CICM). His journey took him far, spending 11 years in Zambia where he served in various roles before returning home to the Philippines in 1998.
His dedication to nurturing the faith continued as he guided young men in religious formation as Socius and Novice Master at the CICM Novitiate in Taytay, Rizal. In 2003, Andaya was appointed bishop of the Apostolic Vicariate of Tabuk, a role he held for over two decades.
A Leader for Indigenous and Cultural Missions
Bishop Andaya has long been a voice for indigenous communities, serving as chairman of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines’ Episcopal Commission on Indigenous Peoples. He was also vice chairman of the Episcopal Commission on Culture, further cementing his role in championing faith alongside cultural heritage.
A Growing Mission in Cabanatuan
Now, Bishop Andaya faces an even larger diocese. The Diocese of Cabanatuan spans the southern part of Nueva Ecija province and serves more than 1.2 million Catholics across 30 parishes in 15 towns, including the cities of Palayan and Gapan.
Bishop Bancud, who led the diocese for nearly two decades, leaves behind a legacy of service and dedication. Andaya now steps into this role with decades of experience and a heart firmly rooted in mission work.
With his strong pastoral background and passion for cultural and indigenous advocacy, Bishop Prudencio Andaya is ready to shepherd the faithful in Nueva Ecija, bringing his own unique touch to the growing Catholic community.
Bishop Andaya, now 65, isn’t new to serving the faithful. His appointment was announced on the 38th anniversary of his priestly ordination, a milestone that beautifully marked this new chapter in his mission.
From Zambia to Nueva Ecija
Born in Lubuagan, Kalinga—a town celebrated for its rich indigenous roots—Andaya was ordained in 1986 as part of the Congregation of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (CICM). His journey took him far, spending 11 years in Zambia where he served in various roles before returning home to the Philippines in 1998.
His dedication to nurturing the faith continued as he guided young men in religious formation as Socius and Novice Master at the CICM Novitiate in Taytay, Rizal. In 2003, Andaya was appointed bishop of the Apostolic Vicariate of Tabuk, a role he held for over two decades.
A Leader for Indigenous and Cultural Missions
Bishop Andaya has long been a voice for indigenous communities, serving as chairman of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines’ Episcopal Commission on Indigenous Peoples. He was also vice chairman of the Episcopal Commission on Culture, further cementing his role in championing faith alongside cultural heritage.
A Growing Mission in Cabanatuan
Now, Bishop Andaya faces an even larger diocese. The Diocese of Cabanatuan spans the southern part of Nueva Ecija province and serves more than 1.2 million Catholics across 30 parishes in 15 towns, including the cities of Palayan and Gapan.
Bishop Bancud, who led the diocese for nearly two decades, leaves behind a legacy of service and dedication. Andaya now steps into this role with decades of experience and a heart firmly rooted in mission work.
With his strong pastoral background and passion for cultural and indigenous advocacy, Bishop Prudencio Andaya is ready to shepherd the faithful in Nueva Ecija, bringing his own unique touch to the growing Catholic community.
Dec 9, 2024
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