“Today the Seat is Occupied”

By Rea Flores Oliver

On May 1, 2025, a profound sense of joy and gratitude filled the air as Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon, D.D. of the Archdiocese of Caceres, said these words as he delivered his heartfelt thanksgiving message during the Episcopal Ordination and Canonical Possession of the new bishop of the Diocese of Daet, Most Rev. Herman G. Abcede, RCJ, D.D. His words resonated deeply, reflecting the significance of the occasion and the love and hope of a community eager for guidance and inspiration.

Archbishop Alarcon was the Principal Consecrator, and he expressed his gratitude for this momentous event, recognizing it as a pivotal milestone for the ecclesiastical province of Caceres. He spoke passionately about the unwavering support and faith that had sustained the community during the interim period, a time filled with anticipation and prayer. It was a celebration of answered prayers— a new shepherd had arrived to guide them.

Bishop Herman Abcede, now the 5th bishop of the Diocese of Daet, was welcomed during a beautiful Eucharistic Celebration during the Feast of St. Joseph, the Worker, the Principal Patron of the Diocese. The ceremony was enriched by the presence of esteemed co-consecrators: the previous bishop of Daet, now Archbishop of Lipa, Most Rev. Gilbert Garcera, D.D., and Most Rev. Jesse Mercado, D.D. of the Diocese of Parañaque. The gathering included bishops, clerics, consecrated men and women, government officials, and laypeople from the Rogationists Congregation and various dioceses across the Philippines. Together, they formed a tapestry of faith that celebrated this new chapter.

In a moving homily, Archbishop Socrates Villegas, D.D. of the Diocese of Lingayen-Dagupan, painted a vivid picture of Bishop Abcede not just as a leader but as a fatherly figure—an anointed worker of the Lord. He emphasized that Bishop Abcede’s arrival was a response to the fervent prayers of the Diocese of Daet. The message was clear: a bishop’s role transcends mere leadership; it is a sacred calling, a profound mystery of stewardship and co-working among the faithful.

As the celebration drew to a close, Bishop Abcede delivered his own thanksgiving message, emphasizing the vital role of prayer in the mission of evangelization. He drew inspiration from Matthew 9:36-38, adopting the motto, “Rogate ergo Dominum messis,” which translates to “Therefore, pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.” In his reflections, he highlighted that Jesus prioritizes prayer over action, reminding everyone that the journey of spreading the Gospel begins with sincere supplication to God for laborers in His vineyard.

With a warm smile, Bishop Abcede shared his personal journey, recounting his time spent in Metro Manila and the surprise he felt upon being appointed bishop by Pope Francis. He spoke candidly about the weight of this new responsibility and the blessings it brings, closing his message with a heartfelt “Dios Mabalos,” a beautiful expression of gratitude and a prayer for God’s reward for everyone’s kindness.

This day not only marked the installation of a new bishop but also heralded a profound renewal of faith and hope for the Diocese of Daet, especially as it celebrates its Golden Jubilee Year. With the seat now occupied, the local church eagerly anticipates a future enriched with compassion, guidance, and a deeper connection to their faith.