KCFAPI formally launches TOKCA - Knights of Columbus Philippines
Transcription
KCFAPI formally launches TOKCA - Knights of Columbus Philippines
CBCP Monitor Monitor C1 Vol. 13 No. 15 5 March July 202- -August 15, 2009 2, 2009 The Cross A Supplement Publication of KCFAPI and the Order of the Knights of Columbus KC Luzon State Deputy Alonso Tan, KC Visayas State Deputy Dionisio Esteban, Jr., KC Mindanao State Deputy Sofronio Cruz, KCFAPI Chairman Patrocinio Bacay, President Antonio Borromeo, Executive Vice President Ma. Theresa Curia, officers and employees during the Grand Launching of TOKCA last July 2. KCFAPI formally launches TOKCA By April Basilio THE Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Inc. (KCFAPI) marked the grand launching of the Search for The Outstanding Knights of Columbus Awards (TOKCA) last July 2. The event was held at the main office in Intramuros, Manila. Dubbed as TOKCA 2009, its aim is to give due recognition to brother knights who have excelled in their fields of endeavor. Present in the event were the Board of Trustees of KCFAPI, Board of Directors of KCFAPI Subsidiaries, Board of Directors of KC Foundation, KCFAPI Officers, Area Managers, employees of KCFAPI and Subsidiaries, CBCP Media team and various guests. The program started at 6 o’clock in the evening with an invocation led by former KC scholar Fr. Jerome Cruz of San Ildefonso Parish, Navotas. Vice President of KCFAPI Fraternal Benefits Group Mr. Joseph Teodoro acknowledged the dignitaries present during the affair. KCFAPI Executive Vice-President Ma. Theresa Curia said the opening remarks. In line with the launching of TOKCA, the event also highlighted the introduction of KC website. Msgr. Pedro Quitorio III, Media Director of CBCP Communications Development Foundation (CCDF), presented the contents of the said website. CCDF is the media and public relations consultant of KCFAPI. The website, which may be viewed at www.kofc.org.ph brings to light news and updates on the KC Order, KC Foundation, KCFAPI and subsidiaries. After the presentation, KCFAPI Chairman Patrocinio Bacay initiated the formal launching of the KC website. The TOKCA was introduced to the guests by KCFAPI employees through a modelling production showcasing each field of endeavor. The fields consist of profession on government service, accountancy and business, engineering, science and technology, academe, medical and healthcare services, law and judiciary, sports and entertainment, journalism and media, agriculture, youth and community development, arts and literature, and entrepreneurship. The awards will recognize the outstanding achievements of members in these respective professions. It is said that the search intends to project awareness for KC members of the Mission of the Order of KC and to promote KCFAPI’s mission for its significance to the Order of KC and the country. KCFAPI President, Antonio Borromeo delivered his speech after the presentation which was then followed by the unveiling of the TOCKA poster headed by the KCFAPI Chairman, Patrocinio Bacay, KCFAPI President Antonio Borromeo, KC Luzon State Deputy Alonso Tan, KC Visayas State Deputy Dionisio Esteban, Jr. and KC Mindanao State Deputy Sofronio Cruz. The unveiling was later followed by a group picture taking. The event culminated with the singing of KCFAPI’s theme song, the Hands of Love. KCFAPI to issue stamps and other philatelic products Insurance Commissioner Eduardo T. Malinis issues KC Fraternal the license to transact business as a Mutual Benefit Association. Present at the occasion were Deputy Commissioner Vida Chiong, KCFAPI President Antonio Borromeo, Executive Vice President Ma. Theresa Curia and Treasurer Antonio Yulo. KC builds chapel and houses at Gawad Kalinga THE groundbreaking of Fr. George J. Willmann chapel at the Bagong Pangarap Gawad Kalinga (GK) Site, Tungkong Mangga, San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan was held last June 29 in the presence of KC Philippines Foundation officials. Msgr. Pedro C. Quitorio III, KCFAPI Spiritual Director blessed the site where the provisional chapel will be erected. The chapel named after Fr. Willmann, the father of the the Knights of Columbus in the Philippines, was dedicated to Our Lady of Perpetual Help whose feast day falls on the same day. Officials of the Knights of Columbus Philippines FoundaChairman Justice Jose C. Reyes, Jr., President Alonso L. Tan, Msgr. Pedro C. Quitorio III and tion led by Chairman KCFAPI officers and employees at Bagong Pangarap Gawad Kalinga (GK) Tungkong Mangga, Justice Jose C. Reyes, San Jose del Monte, Bulacan last June 27. Jr. and President Alon- A MEMORANDUM of Agreement has been signed between the Philippine Postal Corporation (PPC) and the Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Inc (KCFAPI) regarding the issuance of its commemorative stamps and other philatelic products. The said activity happened last June 19 at the Knights of Columbus Philippines main office in Intramuros, Manila. KCFAPI President Antonio Borromeo and Postmaster General and CEO Hector Villanueva signed the agreement before other officials of both organizations. Present in the said event were KCFAPI Executive Vice President Ma. Theresa Curia, KCFAPI Treasurer Antonio Yulo, Elenita San Diego, Manager of the Philatelic Department, and Yolanda Martinez, Marketing Specialists of the Sales Department. KCFAPI Legal Manager Atty. Rizal Katalbas, Jr., also witnessed the activity. Provided in the agreement, among others, is the circulation and distribution of the stamps and other products on July 31, 2009. These products will be issued and circulated to commemorate the fifty (50) years in service of so L. Tan honored the event with their presence. SK Fermin Garcia, District Deputy of District M29 led the Bulacan Knights from Council 14227 of Sapang Palay, San Jose Del Monte, Council 14419 of Pleasant Hills, Council 12204 of Francisco Homes, Council 13344 of Muzon and Council 6745 of Poblacion, San Jose del Monte. KCFAPI employees and members of Couples for Christ led by Bro. Beng Garcia were also present during the ceremony. The chapel and seven additional houses will be constructed through a Bayanihan System. KCFAPI employees conducted their first Baya- KCFAPI, which was observed last year. Established in 1958, the Association was founded by the father of the Knights of Columbus in the Philippines, Fr. George Willmann, SJ. The institution was initiated to provide mutual assistance to KC members and their beneficiaries for losses and damages from the injuries and/or losses of lives and properties. Through its foundations, namely, The KC Philippines Foundation and Fr. George J. Willmann Charities, Inc., KCFAPI accomplishes efficiently its social responsibility by extending help to the community and to the Church, especially in the formation of priests. (Kate Laceda) nihan Build last July 11 together with the Bagong Pangarap Community. Donned with their blue volunteer uniforms, gloves and buri hat, the employees participated in the gravel and sand relay for concrete mixing to be used for the chapel flooring. The housing project is a partnership between the KC Philippines Foundation, Inc., a subsidiary of KC Fraternal Association of the Philippines (KCFAPI), and Gawad Kalinga Community Development Foundation, Inc. For those who want to volunteer, schedules of Bayanihan Build are: July 25, August 8 and 22, and September 5, 2009. (Denise Solina) Foundation scholars get merit for excellence, reap award A SCHOLAR of the Knights of Columbus (KC) Philippines Foundation, Inc. was recently given a distinction for academic excellence. Adrian Jay Barcelona was one of the awardees for an academic honor given to those who attain high general average grade for two consecutive school years. He is a third year BS Food Technology student of the Philippine Women’s College of Davao. Mr. Barcelona is the son of Bro. Danilo Barcelona, an active member of the Knights of Columbus Council 12506 in Polomolok, South Cotabato and Sis. Sirena Barcelona. He was a scholar since schoolyear 2007-2008 under the Supreme Council Scholarship Program which was administered locally by the KC Philippines Foundation. Meanwhile, Mr. Jose Gabriel Mallari, one of the scholars of the Knights of Columbus (KC) Philippines Foundation, Inc. garnered the Best Debater award in the recently concluded FACE OFF: “Class of Wits” Debate Tournament. He is a 3rd year Broadcast Communication student at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines and son of Bro. Edgardo Mallari, a member of Msgr. Miguel P. Nuguid Council 6332 of Bago Bantay, Quezon City, and Sis. Chona Mallari. Mr. Mallari’s team also emerged as the over-all champion in the said competition which was sponsored by the Polytechnic University of the Philippines. (Denise Solina) THE Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Inc. (KCFAPI) handed over the first year earnings of the CBCP Seed of Hope Fund to CBCP President Archbishop Angel N. Lagdameo. This year’s earnings amounting to P777,000.00 was presented by KCFAPI President Antonio B. Borromeo, Treasurer Antonio T. Yulo, Atty. Ramon Rodrigo, Independent Trustee, Executive Vice President Ma. Theresa G. Curia and Vice President for Finance Mary Magdalene G. Flores. The Fund amounting to P10 Million was established last year by KCFAPI with earnings of the fund to be donated annually to CBCP to finance its priority projects. The Cross C2 Chairman’s Message Vol. 13 No. 15 July 20 - August 2, 2009 President’s Message Antonio B. Borromeo Patrocinio R. Bacay WE have formally launched this season’s search for the outstanding Knights of Columbus which we call TOKCA (The Outstanding Knights of Columbus Awards) to give due recognition to our brother knights who have excelled in their respective fields of endeavor. The KC order has grown so big with a membership of 248,976 all over the Philippines. With this number, we know for a fact that there are a lot of good men who come from the KC family CBCP Monitor THE Outstanding Knights of Columbus Awards (TOKCA) was formally launched last July 2, 2009. This is open to all brother Knights nationwide. We enjoin each and every KC member to participate in this endeavor. This is to give due recognition and honor to our brother knights who have given so much to society, community and family. We need role models for our countrymen to emulate. This is also to realize the KC principles of CHARITY, UNITY, FRATERNITY and PATRIOTISM. The awardees will be feted in Cebu City during the NATIONAL CONVENTION in April 2010. and a few have stood up to the challenge of helping the Filipino in an outstanding way. The TOKCA is the avenue to fete these distinguished men who have unselfishly given themselves for the good of the Order and of the nation. So, brother Knights, we enjoin you to help us find these outstanding gentlemen and let us award them on April 2010 in Cebu City. Vivat Jesus! THE City of Cabanatuan is a first class, urban city in the province of Nueva Ecija. It is considered the commerce, industrial and educational hub of the province. It is a bustling city home to many jeepneys and tricycles and bears the title as the “Tricycle Capital of the Philippines”, because it has about over 30,000 registered tricycles. As of this date, there are Six Knights of Columbus Councils based on different Parishes in Cabanatuan City (Council 3692, Council 6000, Council 8226, Council 10860, Council 14379, and Council 8652). Among them, Cabanatuan City Council 3692 was one of the founding members that contributed P500.00 to the initial Capital of KCFAPI way back on September 1958. Almost 30 years later, on May 1988, the first Cabanatuan Service Office was opened in the same building as Cabanatuan Cooperative Bank near the NFA warehouse, located at Maharlika Highway, Cabanatuan City with its first Service Office Administrator Ms. Leah Marilyn Urmatan Guerrero. To better serve our KC Brothers, the Service Office was relocated to the Borja Building at Burgos St. and transferred to Santarina Bldg. at Sancianco St. and finally at the Knights of Columbus Bldg. along Burgos St. after Keys Realty acquired the said property. Presently running the Cabanatuan Service Office are the Central Luzon Area Manager Manuel L. Naldoza, Service Office Assistant Erwin John B. Mallari and Service Office Staff Cherryl B. Baluyot. The Cabanatuan Service Office is the base of operations for the Central Luzon Conquerors (CLC) whose mission is to be of service to the KC members and their families in the provinces of Nueva Ecija, Aurora, and Pangasinan. CLC is the area with the highest target and is home to the most number of awardees. The Area manager, Fraternal Counselors, and Service Office personnel are all working hard to carry on the mission and vision of KCFAPI and keep the rich tradition of this area. (Erwin John B. Mallari) KCFAPI marks Fr. Willmann’s 112th Birth Anniversary Columbus in the Philippines, last June 29. The celebration started with a mass held at the home office dedicated to his legacy. This was followed by a wreath-laying ceremony led by KCFAPI and KC Luzon officers. Being the father of the Knights of Columbus in the Philippines, Fr. George J. Willmann also founded the Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Inc. (KCFAPI). Fr. Willmann is an American Jesuit Priest but has the heart of a Filipino. He first came to the Philippines in 1922 and by 1947 he became the First District Deputy of Knights in Columbus for the Philippines. He passed away on September 14, 1977 at age 80, but his legacy still continues to inspire and guide KC KC Luzon State Deputy Alonso Tan and Justice Jose Reyes leads the wreath-laying ceremonies Fraternal and the Order of the Knights of Columbus. (April Basilio) during the commemoration of Fr. Willmann’s birth anniversary. KC Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Inc. (KCFAPI) commemorates the 112th Birth Anniversary of KC Fr. George J. Willmann S.J., the father of the Knights of © www.wikipedia.org, w/ special thanks to Ms. Leah Guerrero, Mr. Joseph P. Teodoro, Mr. Manuel L. Naldoza, and Bro Francisco Hilario The KCFAPI Cabanatuan Service Office Service Office Assistant Erwin John B. Mallari and Service Office Staff Cherryl B. Baluyot of KC Fraternal Cabanatuan Service Office. KCFAPI Cares for its Valued Resource... The Salesforce! KCFAPI’s Fraternal Benefits Group recently enrolled 53 qualified Area Managers and Fraternal Counselors to PhilamCare, Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) Provider for the Salesforce’s Hospitalization and Medical Benefit. The entitlement to this benefit is free of charge and the premium is 100% shouldered by KCFAPI. The prize is part of rewards and recognition program for the FCs producers. The qualifying period started January to December 2008 and the start of coverage runs from June 1, 2009 up to May 30, 2010. There are three plans of hospitalization and medical benefits coverage, Plan A with up to P150,000.00 maximum benefit per year, Plan B with up to P100,000.00 maximum benefit per year and Plan C with up to P60,000 maximum benefit per year. Twelve FCs made it on Plan A with 48 new paid lives with 85 percent retention rate while five FCs brought 36 new paid lives with 85 percent retention rate landed on Plan B. Nineteen FCs qualified on Plan C with minimum of 24 paid lives and 85 percent retention rate. Seventeen Area Managers nationwide are now enrolled under HMO enjoying a wide range of free medical services and hospitalization benefits that include Annual Physical Examinations, consultations or confinements. KCFAPI also awarded a cash equivalent for FCs who are no longer eligible to enroll due to age. There are a total of 11 FCs who benefited. With this concrete manifestation of caring for our salesforce, KCFAPI lives to its mission that “We truly regard our dynamic and dedicated field representatives as our Valued Resource!” (Gari San Sebastian) THE Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of Philippines Inc. (KCFAPI), the second-to-none insurance provider of KC members, is embarking to reach a new milestone as it sponsors the prestigious The Outstanding Knights of Columbus Award (TOKCA) for members. The TOKCA Awards aims to recognize the outstanding achievements of members in their respective professions worthy of emulation, to project a strong public knowledge of the Mission of the Order of the Knights of Columbus as a tool to attract new members, to spur KCFAPI’s quest for its relevance not only to the Order of the Knights of Columbus but to the nation as well and to provide inspiration, to all members to live up to the cardinal principles of CHARITY, UNITY, FRATERNITY & PATRIOTISM. Who May Qualify K of C members who are current in his council dues and nominated by his council may qualify and earn a chance to win the coveted title. The nomination must be endorsed by the parish priest of his council. He may qualify to any of following professions or fields of endeavor: Government Service Accountancy and Business Engineering, Science and Technology Academe Medical and health care services Law and judiciary Sports and entertainment Journalism and media Agriculture Youth and Community development Arts and literature Entrepreneurship KCFAPI reserves the right to consider a limited number of categories even if there are nominees in all and the above categories. The following are not eligible to be nominated in the SEARCH for TOKCA: Incumbent members of KCFAPI Board of Trustees/Directors of subsidiaries. Employees of KCFAPI and Subsidiaries, KCFAPI Area Managers and their immediate families (fathers, husbands and sons). Five State Officers, the State Program and Membership Directors and their immediate families. Members of the Board of Jurors. Awards Criteria The nominee must accept his nomination in the prescribed form not later than December 15, 2009. The nominee must have engaged in his field of endeavor with documented proof within the past five years subject to validation by the Board of Jurors and the Search Committee. Points System a) Professional Excellence - Max 50pts b) Participation in Council, Parish and Community - Max 30pts c) Membership in KCFAPI - Max 20pts Total of 100 pts Search and Nomination Procedures Nomination and endorsements must be in the hands of KCFAPI Search Committee by September 15, 2009 for initial screening. This should include all original attachments in support of the nomination. Validation. The search committee together with the sub-committee on validation will conduct verification of statements made on the nominations including endorsements and supporting documents submitted. The validation period will end until November 15, 2009. The qualified nominees will be informed in writing for their acceptance. The list of qualifiers will be announced officially through KCFAPI’s chosen publications and circulars. Acceptance of nominations must be received by the search committee on or before December 15, 2009. All nomination forms, endorsements and attachments shall become the property of KCFAPI or may be returned to the nominee if it deems necessary. Evaluation. The Search Committee will assign points and prepare a short list of nominees which will be forwarded to the Board of Jurors for selection of winners not later than January 15, 2010. The points earned shall merely serve as guide for the Board of Jurors in selecting the winners. Search Committee. This Search Committee will be composed of KCFAPI officers headed by its President as Chairman. The Board of Jurors. The Board of Jurors shall be composed of the Spiritual Director, The Chairman of KCFAPI, the President, the three State Deputies and another member to be selected by the Board. The Board of Jurors will choose the winners not later than March 1, 2010 and notify them of their selection. The winners will be entitled to the following: Trophy or plaque to be awarded during the 2010 Tri-state convention to be held in Cebu City. Round-trip airplane fare (as appropriate) and hotel accommodation for two (himself and wife). This item is non-cash convertible and not transferrable. Cash allowance of P20,000.00 which will include other transportation expenses other than plane fare and meals outside of the hotel package. The travel booking and hotel accommodation shall be arranged by KCFAPI. Attend as official delegate to the Tristate convention. KCFAPI will donate in the name of awardee P10,000.00 to his parish and P10,000.00 to his council. For the complete awards information, you may contact KCFAPI Home Office at (02) 527 – 2223. (Joseph P. Teodoro) LAYOUT BY LAURENCE JOHN R. MORALES The Outstanding Knights of Columbus Awards (TOKCA) The Cross CBCP Monitor Vol. 13 No. 15 July 20 - August 2, 2009 C3 The Catholic Response By Carl A. Anderson, Supreme Knight CHRISTOPHER Dawson, who served as the first Chauncey Stillman Chair of Roman Catholic Studies at Harvard University more than 50 years ago, observed, “Human nature always retains its spiritual character…. If it were to lose this, it must lose itself and become the servant of lower powers, so that a secular civilization…inevitably leads to nihilism and to self-destruction.” He continued, “If we look at the world today in isolation from the past and the future, the forces of secularism may seem triumphant. This, however, is but a moment in the life of humanity, and it does not possess the promise of stability and permanence” (Dawson, The Formation of Christendom, 37). These words were written at the height of the Cold War, when the forces of militant atheism appeared in many ways to be gaining the upper hand. They are worth recalling today, as we seem to be entering a new period of secularism. In an April 13 cover story titled “The End of Christian America,” Newsweek magazine made much of a recent survey that found the percentage of self-identified Christians has fallen 10 points in the past two decades. Also notable, according to Newsweek, is that “fewer people now think of the United States as a ‘Christian nation’ than did so when George W. Bush was president (62 percent in 2009 versus 69 percent in 2008).” The Newsweek article focused mainly on the concerns of evangelical Christians, which it said “have long believed that the United States should be a nation whose political life is based upon and governed by their interpretation of biblical and theological principles.” The magazine also quoted several evangelical leaders who now refer to a post-Christian America. To say that Catholics historically have never felt entirely comfort- able with the evangelical idea of a Christian America would be an understatement. But if Dawson is correct that secularism cannot provide a stable foundation for society, and American society appears to be rejecting Protestantism as a foundation, what now is to be done? Is secularism or evangelical Christianity the only alternatives for the future? Can Catholics make a unique contribution to the common good? For me, the words of Pope John Paul II from his great encyclical on life, Evangelium Vitae, remain as relevant today as when they were written in 1995: “To all the members of the Church, the people of life and for life, I make this most urgent appeal, that together we may offer this world of ours new signs of hope, and work to ensure that justice and solidarity will increase and that a new culture of human life will be affirmed, for the building of an authentic civilization of truth and love” (6, emphasis in original). Catholics are called to work continually to build up society, to provide new hope and to establish a new culture of life. The key to this, John Paul knew, was for Catholics to form a strong identity and to accept “the inescapable responsibility of choosing to be unconditionally pro-life” (28, emphasis in original). The present situation provides Catholics with an unprecedented opportunity to help shape the future of our country. John Adams once said that the U.S. constitution “was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.” If this remains true, then we must ask ourselves how Catholics can contribute to the building up of “a moral and religious people.” That answer, John Paul II reminded us, begins with a question that still echoes to us from the very beginning of human society: “Am I my brother’s keeper?” (Gen 4:9). The future of society depends on how we answer this primordial © www.kofc5971.org As modern secularism leads to self-destruction, Catholics must work to build a new culture of life question. I believe there are no men better prepared to do this than those who live the principles of charity, unity and fraternity; who by their works witness to this truth expressed in Evangelium Vitae: “Yes, every man is his ‘brother’s keeper,’ because God entrusts us to one another” (19). Vivat Jesus! KC-USA re-appoints Philippine KC bares new SeminarianTerritorial Deputies The three Philippine Territorial Deputies, Luzon Deputy Alonso L. Tan, Visayas Deputy Dionisio R. Esteban, Jr., and Mindanao Deputy Sofronio R. Cruz were re-appointed for a second term (July 1, 2009-June 30, 2011) by Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson to head the more than 250,000 members of KC nationwide. THE Knights of Columbus Supreme Council has recently re-appointed the three Philippines Territorial Deputies. Supreme Knight Carl Anderson has re-appointed Luzon State Deputy Alonso L. Tan, Visayas State Deputy Dionisio R. Esteban, Jr., and Mindanao State Deputy Sofronio R. Cruz for a second term of two years from July 1, 2009 to June 30, 2011. In the letter of appointment, Anderson expressed his appreciation for the kind of leadership and dedication given by the territorial deputies during their first term and hoped for more meritorious achievements in their second term, saying: “It is therefore my hope… (that you will) continue your emphasis on increasing membership; new council development; council reactivation; spiritual growth and volunteer and charitable outreach.” Luzon State Deputy Tan entered the KC Order in 1977. In 2001, he was elected president of the two KC foundations which are the KC Fr. George Willmann Charities, Inc and KC Philippines Foundation, Inc. He is currently a member of the Board of Trustees of the Keys Realty and Development Corporation and board of trustees and corporate secretary of the KC Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Inc (KCFAPI). Visayas State Deputy Esteban was awarded a Star District Award as District Deputy of District V-12 for two consecutive years during his term as a district deputy. Mindanao State Deputy Cruz, on the other hand, has been serving the KC Order for 48 years now. He is the 6th State Deputy of the 18 year old Mindanao Jurisdiction C95. He became a member of the order in 1959 when he was then a devotee of the Adoration Nocturna Filipina. The three territorial deputies are members of the Founder Members Committee of the KC Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Inc. (KCFAPI), and hold various positions in its subsidiaries. (CBCPNews) scholars KNIGHTS of Columbus Fr. George J. Willmann Charities, Inc. President, SK Alonso L. Tan, recently announced the beneficiaries of its Scholarship Program for diocesan-seminarians in Theology level beginning school year 2009-2010. Named scholars for Luzon are: Magdaleno G. Villarica III (Apostolic Vicariate of Calapan), Rundell B. Medenilla (Diocese of Boac), Policarpio J. Lagco (Diocese of Sorsogon), Bonifacio C. Manaligod (Diocese of Ilagan), and Michael Niño Jesus C. Savellano (Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia). The chosen scholar from Visayas is John T. Abellon (Diocese of San Jose de Buenavista Antique) and from Mindanao are Felix O. Eduave (Diocese of Surigao) and Victor C. Lechido, Jr. (Diocese of Tagum). This brings to 40 the current number of less fortunate but deserving diocesan seminarianscholars supported by the Foundation in various seminaries throughout the country. The Foundation is named after Fr. George J. Willmann, S.J. (1897-1977) who is considered the Father of the Knights of Columbus in the Philippines which at present has 248,976 members. Inquiries about the scholarship program may be coursed through the foundation office at Gen. Luna St., Intramuros, Manila with tel. nos. 527-2223 local 230. (Denise Solina) New Squires of the Body of Christ FIVE Luzon Columbian Squires from Calumpit, Bulacan who achieved the highest level of “Squire of the Body of Christ” in the Squire Advancement Program received their awards from Luzon State Deputy Alonso L. Tan last June 6 at the St. John the Baptist Parish covered court in Poblacion, Calumpit, Bulacan. Assistant State Chaplain Msgr. Pedro C. Quitorio III, and State Columbian Squires Chairman Jose F. Cuaresma were also present during the ceremony. As of May 2009, there were six out of the eight named Squires of the Body of Christ who all come from the Luzon Jurisdiction including the first Filipino and second order-wide Squire of the Body of Christ, SK Fernan O. Dealca, who received the honors from Luzon Deputy Tan last January 24 at the same venue. The Squire Advancement Program which started in 2006 was developed to recognize and reward each Squire for acquiring the skills and attitudes of Catholic leadership. Through the Squire Advancement Program, a Squire advances through four lower levels of achievement – Page, Shield Bearer, Swordsman, and Lancer. Before achieving the highest level of Squire of the Body of Christ, the Squire must have completed at least for two years a minimum of 96 activities including a major project in support of the parish or other church organization. The other two Squires of the Body of Christ order-wide are Sqr. Deriek D. Iglesias of Circle 3022 in Harker Heights, Texas, U.S.A. and Sqr. Kevin A. Davis of St. Francis X. Cabrini Circle 15120 in Bridgeport, Connecticut, U.S.A. (FDD Benjamin Lino Sampedro) Luzon State Deputy Alonso L. Tan (second from right), Assistant State Chaplain Msgr. Pedro Quitorio III (extreme left) and State Columbian Squires Chairman Jose F. Cuaresma (extreme right) pose with the awardees of the Squire of the Body of Christ (from left to right) Sqr. Gamaliel Marion M. Sampedro, Sqr Robert Jay N. Ramos, Sqr. Marvin B. Ronquillo, Sqr. Jimwell S. Sales and Sqr. Alden Kenneth C. De Belen. KC Luzon holds oath-taking for re-appointed State Officers THE Knights of Columbus Luzon Jurisdiction held an oath-taking ceremony for the reappointed State Officers for the Columbian Year 2009-2010 last June 21, 2009 at the Imperial Palace Suites in Quezon City during the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, witnessed by District Deputies from all over Luzon. Sir Knight Alonso L. Tan renewed his oath as the State Deputy of the Knights of Columbus Lu- zon Jurisdiction before Assistant State Chaplain Msgr. Pedro C. Quitorio III. The other State Officers, State Secretary Arsenio Isidro Yap, State Treasurer Joven Joaquin, State Advocate Justice Jose Reyes, Jr., and State Warden Pascual Carbero, together with Msgr. Pedro C. Quitiorio III as Asst. State Chaplain took their Oath of Office from Luzon Deputy Alonso L. Tan. SK Alonso Tan renews his oath as Luzon State Deputy before Msgr. Pedro Quitorio III After the mass, the re-appointed State Directors and Chairmen took their Oath of Office from the Luzon Deputy. These officials are State Program Director Bonifacio Martinez, State Membership Director Joseph Teodoro, State Auditor Raoul Villanueva, State Seminar Director Euberto Lorenzo, Columbian Squires Chairman Jose Cuaresma, State Ceremonial Director Deogenes Francia, State Ways and Means Chairman Miguel Yu, State Fourth Degree Affairs Chairman Victor Pulangco and State Spiritual Formation Chairman Luis Adriano, Jr. Just before lunchtime, the re-appointed District Deputies also took their Oath of Office from Luzon Deputy Alonso Tan. The oath taking ceremonies were conducted during the 2009-2010 Organizational Meeting of District Deputies of Luzon State Jurisdiction. (Kate Laceda) State Officers and Msgr. Pedro C. Quitorio III take oath with Luzon Deputy Alonso Tan C4 The Cross CBCP Monitor Vol. 13 No. 15 July 20 - August 2, 2009 Northern Luzon conducts solidarity meeting IN cooperation with the Fraternal Benefits Group, the Northern Luzon (NL) Gold Miners conducted their first area meeting under their new Area Manager, Bro. Salvador R. Aspuria, Sr. on July 4 at Jack’s Restaurant in La Trinidad, Benguet. Present in the meeting were Bro. Joseph P. Teodoro, Fraternal Benefits Group Vice President; Bro. Conrado S. Dator, Jr. Southern Luzon (SL) Lakers Area Manager; Former NL Area Managers Bro. Mario W. Organo and Bro. Pepito E. Ganase, together with the NL fraternal counselors (FCs). An inspirational Fraternal Talk from Bro. Dator early on boosted the morale of the NL fraternal counselors. Afterward, Bro. Teodoro discussed the NL fraternal benefits target, 2009 Annual Family Service Awards criteria, FCs medical and incentive package, Most Outstanding District Deputy Award (MODD), Council of Honors and The Out- standing Knights of Columbus Awards (TOKCA) rules and regulations. He also discussed the KC C.A.R.E.S products including the Dollar Supreme Plan, expanded SPEK (Special Plan for Elderly Knights) Plan, Investment plans, and facilitated a refresher course on contribution rates computation using sales proposals. The meeting also served as an opportunity to convey the Association’s appreciation to Bro. Mario W. Organo for his services as AM of NL for the past three years. With the continuous support of KCFAPI’s Fraternal Benefits Group, the area promises to improve their production and sales performance through the commitment and solidarity of the former area managers and the NL fraternal counselors’ dedication to attain the area’s fraternal benefits quota. (Jan Michael G. Dayrit) Photo shows Fraternal Benefits Group Vice President – Bro. Joseph Teodoro, Southern Luzon Lakers Area Manager – Bro. Conrado S. Dator, Jr., Former Northern Luzon Area Managers – Bro. Mario W. Organo and Bro. Pepito E. Ganase with the new Area Manager, Bro. Salvador R. Aspuria. KCFAPI Executive Vice-President Ma. Theresa Curia (center), was recently appointed as the Regent of the Rosarian Circle of the Daughters of Mary Immaculate (DMI). Joining her in this photo are some of the officers of the Rosarian Circle of DMI. DMI Officers: Arlene Flores, Elena Ramos, Armilyn Robles, Luzviminda Ortencio, Josie Ramos, Norma Santos, Aurelia Gregorio, Teofila Fajardo, Tessie Mananghaya, Florentina Barlan, Agueda Miranda, Mila Rodriguez, Emelita Cruz, Olivia Legaspi, Cora Cabanas, Gaudelia Caldea, Zonsaida Garcia, Susie Ignacio, Ester Garcia, Analyn Salvador, Mercedita Toribio, Leonisa Pineda, Ellen Bautista, Nerissa Del Rosario, Angelina Maniego. KC Luzon honors 4 brother-knights Comelec commissioners KNIGHTS of Columbus Luzon State Officers headed by Luzon Deputy Alonso L. Tan honored four brother knights who are currently holding the prestigious position as Commissioners of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) namely: Commissioner Rene V. Sarmiento, Commissioner Lucenito N. Tagle, Commissioner Armando C. Velasco and Commissioner Nicodemo T. Ferrer, in a Testimonial Dinner during the 2009 Organizational Meeting of District Deputies held at Imperial Palace Suites, Quezon City last June 20, 2009. The event was attended by 184 District Deputies from all over Luzon, two Past State Deputies, four District Masters, KCFAPI President and Executive Vice President, 28 State Directors/Chairmen. Ladies of the honorees and State Officers also graced the occasion. The Knights of Columbus Rosarian Council 10104 newly-elected Grand Knight Harry R. Curia led the new set of council officers during the installation rites given by District Deputy Rolando Robles last July 4, 2009 at the Santo Rosario Parish in Makinabang, Baliwag, Bulacan. The occasion was graced by no less than the Luzon Deputy Alonso L. Tan, Luzon Asst. Chaplain Msgr. Pedro C. Quitorio III, Past Luzon Deputy Antonio T. Yulo and his lady Sis. Conching Yulo, KCFAPI President Antonio B. Borromeo, and Squires Chairman Joe Cuaresma. Other installed officials of the Rosarian Council are Leoncio F. Dela Cruz (Deputy Grand Knight); Adriano G. Santos, Jr. (Chancellor); John F. Gregorio (Recorder); Juanito M. Estrada (Treasurer); Jose Nilo C. Fernando (Financial Secretary); Isaias N. Guinto (Advocate); Alejandro S. Maniego (Warden); Emigdio A. Manuel (Lecturer); Arturo J. Concepcion (Inside Guard); and the three trustees namely, Jaime H. Maniego, Sr. (1st year); Alvin Pineda (2nd year) and Luis Rodel T. Del Rosario (3rd year). KC Luzon State Deputy Alonso L. Tan, KCFAPI President Antonio B. Borromeo, and Executive Vice President Ma. Theresa G. Curia with Bishop Florentino Lavarias during the 1st Diocesan Convention of the Knights of Columbus in the Diocese of Iba, held in San Antonio, Zambales.