THE PINK SAND OF STA. CRUZ ISLAND, ZAMBOANGA CITY

            After attending the reconsecration of the Jolo Cathedral, which had been restored after the bombing, I had a one-day layover in Zamboanga City. I asked a paisano priest who was serving as oeconomus of the archdiocese if it might be possible to visit Santa Cruz Island, the city’s famous pink beach.

          Joining me were relatives of the Apostolic Administrator of Jolo, who were also eager to see the island. Because of the peace and order situation, the island is not easily accessible unless one first obtains permission from the authorities. The priest was able to coordinate with the Philippine Coast Guard in the city, and we were eventually allowed to use one of their speedboats. Some military personnel also accompanied us to provide security during the trip.

The food prepared ready for the boodle fight. 

This is the red coral found in the island that makes the sand pink. 

THE RECONSECRATION OF THE CATHEDRAL OF JOLO

    To represent the CBCP, last July 16, 2019, I attended the reconsecration of the Cathedral of Jolo.  It was the feast day of the Cathedral being titled in honor of the Our Lady of Mt. Carmel.  Six months before on January 27, 2019, two bombs exploded in the Cathedral damaging the church and killing 21 persons and injuring a hundred others who were attending a Sunday mass.

Cardinal Quevedo, who was a former parish priest of Jolo giving the homily

Abp. Angelito Lampon, OMI, the former bishop of Jolo and now the Archbishop of Cotabato was the main celebrant. Other bishops present were Cardinal Quevedo, Abp. Valles, CBCP President, Abp. Dela Cruz of Zamboanga, and Bp. Edwin de la Peña of Marawi. 

The altar linens being placed on the altar table after the anointing.

The Apostolic Nuncio Caccia led the consecration of the altar table and walls of the Cathedral.

Apostolic Nuncio Gabriele Caccia delivering his message. 

The Apostolic Administrator Fr. Romeo Saniel, OMI giving his words of thanks 

With Fr. Charlie Inzon, OMI (middle) who a year later would be installed as the new bishop of Jolo. 

There was a heavy security for the guests who attended the reconsecration. 

Cardinal Quevedo, Sulu Governor Abdusakur Tan, Apostolic Nuncio Gabriele Caccia, Abp. Romulo Valles and Fr. Romeo Saniel, OMI at the reception done at the Notre Dame of Jolo College. 

The Chapel of the OMI at the compound of the college..