The Bishops’ Retreat and National Consultation for Synodal Implementation in Tagbilaran City

 

After months of preparation, the much-anticipated hosting of the Dioceses of Tagbilaran and Talibon finally took place. The first part of the event was held at the Bohol Tropics Resort (BTR) in Tagbilaran City, which served as the venue for both the Bishops’ Retreat and the National Consultation for Synodal Implementation. In addition to the bishops, each diocese was represented by one delegate. To ensure a diverse representation, the metropolitan provinces were instructed to send delegates that included a priest, a religious, a layperson, and a youth.

Delegates began arriving on June 30. Those who arrived in the morning were welcomed with breakfast at the Dauis Rectory, conveniently located just about ten minutes from the airport. The bishops were accommodated at the BTR, while the other delegates were billeted at the MetroCentre Hotel. Lunch was served at the Tagbilaran Cathedral Rectory. The opening Mass was celebrated at Dauis Church, followed by dinner at Holy Name University, run by the SVDs, in Tagbilaran City.

Breakfast was served at the Dauis Rectory for those who arrived early from Manila. 

A corridor on the second floor of the Dauis rectory. 

Assumption of Our Lady Shrine and Parish (F-1697)
Dauis, Bohol

Dauis Altar

Painting on the dome of the ceiling

Dauis Rectory

The CBCP Secretariat in front of the Dauis Church, arrived on the morning of June 30. 

Bp. Alberto Uy of Tagbilaran was the celebrant on the first day at the Dauis Church.

Dinner at the gymnasium of Holy Name University in Tagbilaran

The Holy Name University Choir

Some bishops were asked to join in the dancing. 

 

July 1, Tuesday

The first full day of the retreat-consultation began with the National Synodal Team facilitating the day’s activities. The day concluded with a Eucharistic celebration at the Tagbilaran Cathedral, followed by dinner at the City Civic Center.

Estela Padilla, member of the National Synodal Team explaining the process of the consultation.

Bp. Abet Uy welcoming the bishops at the Cathedral grounds.

The bishops with the synodal delegates at the Tagbilaran Cathedral.

The bishops at the Tagbilaran Cathedral

Cardinal Ambo David giving his homily at the magnificent Tagbilaran Cathedral

The Singing Priests of Tagbilaran belting out some songs during dinner.

July 2, Wednesday

The second day of the retreat-consultation was capped by the celebration of the Eucharist at Baclayon Church. Dinner was then served on the parish lawn, providing a relaxed and scenic atmosphere.

The delegates having a triad.

Bps. Eli Ayuban of Cubao, Bp. Nes Ongtioco his predecessor and Bp. Bart Santos.

Some of the lay delegates.

Some of the youth delegates

The triad ending with a prayer

The youth delegates with Abp. Rex Andrew Alarcon, the Chairmen of the Commission on Youth.

The bishops in front of the Baclayon Church

Immaculate Conception Parish (F-1717)
Baclayon, Bohol

Dinner was served at the patio besides the Baclayon Church

With the two powerful singers who belted out some songs during the dinner program.

With the Mayor of Baclayon, Atty. Alvin Uy.

July 3, Thursday

The final day of the retreat-consultation ended with Mass at the BTR just before lunch. By then, the delegates had finalized the Sulong-Padayon 2025: Synod Implementation Framework. In the afternoon, the non-bishop delegates departed, while members of the Permanent Council and the bishop-chairmen of the various commissions, committees, and offices (ECCOs) stayed behind for a meeting. Meanwhile, the other bishops were taken on a brief tour of the nearby areas of Tagbilaran. Dinner and socials were held at the BTR, with the renowned Loboc Children’s Choir delighting the bishops with their performance.

July 4, Friday

After breakfast, the bishops checked out of the resort and proceeded to Loboc for the Mass. Along the route, both children and adults lined the streets, waving flags in welcome—especially for the Apostolic Nuncio, who had arrived that morning. Following the Mass, the bishops enjoyed a Loboc River cruise where lunch was served aboard the boat.

The bishops in procession to the Loboc Church. Notice the bridge on the right which would have cut across the church. It has now become a park for the townsfolks. 

The bishops with the Loboc Children's Choir

The bishops getting into the boat for the river cruise and lunch.