Archbishop Garcera begins term as new CBCP president

Archbishop Gilbert Garcera of Lipa, Batangas, has officially begun his two-year term as the new president of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) on December 1, 2025.

The 66-year-old Garcera succeeds Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, who concluded his two-term presidency.

His election marked a break from tradition, as bishops typically elected the outgoing vice president, a role previously held by Pasig Bishop Mylo Hubert Vergara.

Garcera, who previously chaired the Commission on Mission and the Commission on Family and Life, will serve as the spokesperson for over 80 bishops in the Philippines.

Archbishop Julius Tonel of Zamboanga will serve as the new vice president, succeeding Bishop Mylo Hubert Vergara.

Garcera began his episcopal ministry as bishop of Daet in 2007 and has called for prayers, stating, "Ipagdasal po ninyo sapagkat napakabigat ng krus na nakapatong sa akin. Sama-sama po tayo, tulong-tulong, magdarasal po tayo upang ang kalooban ng Diyos ay mapasaatin."