TACLOBAN CITY— Bishop Crispin Varquez of the Diocese of Borongan has called on the faithful to confront the country’s continuing social ills — including poverty, injustice, and corruption — as the diocese marked its 65th founding anniversary on Wednesday, Oct. 22.
In his pastoral message titled “Have Loved You with an Everlasting Love” (Jer. 31:3), issued on the occasion of the diocese’s milestone celebration, Bishop Varquez reminded the clergy and laity alike that their mission as a Church goes beyond worship, urging them to “be the hands and feet of Christ” in addressing the problems that plague Filipino society today.
“Our current realities present many challenges to us. The continuing scourge of poverty and injustice, the scandal of corruption and lack of accountability offer us an opportunity to give witness to the Gospel,” Bishop Varquez said.

He urged the Church in Eastern Samar to actively promote justice, peace, human dignity, and care for creation, describing these as integral to living out the Gospel in contemporary times.

“We are called to be a Church that listens and responds, a Church that walks alongside our people,” he said, adding that even small acts done “with great love,” echoing St. Mother Teresa, can make a difference.

The prelate’s message, released as part of the diocese’s theme “Graced 65 Years: Together let us Honor the Past, Serve the Present, and Embrace the Future,” also reflected on the faith journey of the local Church, founded in 1959.

Bishop Varquez paid tribute to the early missionaries and leaders who helped build the diocese, acknowledging their sacrifices and faith that “continue to bear fruit in the thriving Church we have become.”

He also called for unity and hope as the diocese moves forward amid uncertainty, drawing inspiration from Scripture: “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future’” (Jeremiah 29:11).

The Diocese of Borongan, which serves the entire province of Eastern Samar, was established on October 22, 1959, through the apostolic constitution Cum Ecclesia Catholica issued by Pope John XXIII.

(JOEY A. GABIETA)

ORMOC CITY — The city government here celebrated its 78th Charter Day on October 20 with the Tatak Ormoc Business Awards and Garbo sa Ormoc ceremonies, recognizing exemplary individuals, entrepreneurs, and local innovations that reflect the city’s growth and resilience.

Held at the Ormoc City plaza, the twin awarding ceremonies highlighted achievements in business, culture, and public service. Mayor Lucy Torres-Gomez, joined by city officials and members of the Charter Day executive committee, led the distribution of awards to this year’s honorees.

Among the Garbo sa Ormoc awardees were Department of Tourism Assistant Secretary Ronald Canopio, Boynton Beach, Florida Mayor Tyrone “Ty” Penserga, Arellano University volleyball player Catherine Domasig, Engr. Ace Juntilla, Jose Manuel Gaquit, Carlo Baltonado, Emilio Cuevas, Allan Devil Arreza, and Dr. Noel Labaniego.

Dr. Samuel Vincent Yrastorza received a special citation, while former 802nd Brigade Commander BGen. Noel Vestuir was honored with the Dakbayanon Pasalamat Award for his service to the city.

In the Tatak Ormoc Business Innovation Awards, Mauro Café was named Best Start-Up Enterprise, while Melann Lending Investor Corporation and N.Y.G’s Store topped the Banking and Finance category. Mayong’s Burger and Snackhouse won in Manufacturing, and Link IT Solutions and Digital Printing were recognized under Services. Bryan James Sabino was named Young Entrepreneur of the Year, and Froilan Celeste took home the Entrepreneur of the Year award.

Customer favorites also took center stage in the Tatak Ormoc Customers’ Choice Awards. Milagrina Restaurant was recognized for Best Chicken House and Best Pork Barbecue, while Ikea Cakes and Snacks dominated multiple categories, including Best Empanada, Best Halo-halo, Best Leche Flan, and Best Fresh Lumpia.

Other winners included Yoyi’s Cakes and Pastries (Best Food Pasalubong), Boylin’s Eatery (Best Dinuguan), and Eng Lechonan (Best Lechon).

In the Service Category, top honorees were Cliffaded Barber Shop (Best Barbershop), 25th Lane Café (Best Café), Bong’s Event Catering Services (Best Catering), Arnel’s Weddings and Events (Best Event Stylist), Sabin Resort Hotel (Best Hotel), IALodge (Best Little Hotel), Pepang Aviles (Best Make-Up Artist), Hair Fairy Beauty Salon (Best Salon), and Elite Marketing (Best Video Production).

For Retail, winners included Yoyi’s Cakes and Pastries (Best Balikbayan Favorite), Amy and Ann Dried Fish Store (Best Dried Fish), Abeth’s Seafood Stall (Best Fish Stall), Leah’s Blooms Flower Shop (Best Flower Shop), Benben Fruit Stall (Best Fruit Stand), One-Stop Commercial (Best Grocery), and JS Chiong Meatshop (Best Meat Shop).

Adding a lighthearted twist, the “Feelings Category” awarded fun and relatable favorites, such as “Multo” by Cup of Joe (Best Break-Up Song), Banana Pancakes from Marta’s Resort (Best Break-Up Food), Pakdol from Doro’s Little Carenderia (Best Comfort Food), and Ormoc City Plaza (Best Date Place).

The celebration culminated in performances by R&B singer Kyla and performer Dionela, followed by a drone and fireworks display that lit up the Ormoc skyline.

The Tatak Ormoc and Garbo sa Ormoc awards underscored the city’s commitment to recognizing excellence, supporting local enterprises, and honoring Ormocanons who continue to inspire pride and progress in the community.

(LIZBETH ANN A. ABELLA)