Diocesan Pastoral Manual 2021 As of Sept2021 2

DIOCESAN
PASTORAL MANUAL
DRAFT MANUAL
User
VISION
A community of life-giving families, empowered poor, and vibrant youth in Albay

witnessing to Christ and His Gospel under the care of our Mother of Salvation.
MISSION
Shepherd the faithful, especially, the family, the poor, and the young,
pursue renewed evangelization, and nurture Church workers and collaborators
guided by the values of respect for life, integral development, and care for creation.
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FOREWORD
This Diocesan Pastoral Manual is a compendium of pastoral policies in the Diocese of Legazpi
emanating from the Acts and Decrees of the First Diocesan Synod in 2000, the Diocesan Pastoral
Assemblies in 2011 and 2016, pastoral letters, and diocesan circulars.
It is called a manual because it contains sets of instructions on how we strive to achieve our
diocesan vision and fulfil our mission in the particular contexts of our Local Church.
It is a compendium because it seeks to fill in gaps in access. While having pastoral guidelines
and policies clarifies mandates and regulates initiatives, not being able to easily access them
results to confusion, forgetfulness, and weak implementation.
It is promulgated by the Bishop through a formal decree in order to transition from being mere
guidelines that tend to be viewed as voluntary into policies that are categorically mandatory.
It has two main parts: General Policies and Particular Policies. The General Policies pertain to
the composition and functions of various pastoral bodies and offices in our “Structures of
Communion”, such as the various levels of pastoral councils and commissions that reflect how
we have aligned and integrated our diocese’s organizational structure into this “new way of being
Church” – the Basic Ecclesial Communities (BECs), which in our diocese are called Saradit na
Komunidad nin Pagtubod (SAKOP). The Particular Policies pertain to more specific policies from
particular pastoral bodies, such as their internal organizational structures and mandates, and
rules and regulations for the general faithful in the diocese in different pastoral areas.
It is a living document of Ecclesia semper reformanda, a Church always in need of reform. The
instructions contained herein have been shaped by our history as a Local Church and how we
respond to the challenges and opportunities of the times as we do our perennial mission of
evangelization. This is also to say that no set of rules is ever perfect or complete; we can only
seek to respond effectively to pressing issues and exercise prudence to limit, if not eliminate,
unintended consequences. That is why its future is marked by an openness to learn and adapt,
to amend provisions and create new ones as needed.
Finally, admitting both this manual’s relevance and limits means acknowledging our reliance on
the Spirit in everything. May the same Spirit continue to lead us to all truths and when found make
us ever passionate to proclaim them in word and action.
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DECREE OF PROMULGATION
Dear People of God in the Diocese of Legazpi:
In 2000, when the Acts and Decrees of the First Legazpi Diocesan Synod were promulgated by
the late Most Rev. Jose C. Sorra, fourth Bishop of Legazpi, it was acknowledged that some of its
decrees still need implementing guidelines for their effective implementation and compliance.
Over time, some more pastoral policies were drawn to address various pastoral concerns.
The Diocesan Pastoral Assemblies held in 2011 and 2016 led to the updating of pastoral
guidelines and crafting new ones to reflect the diocese’s commitment to the reformulated Vision
and Mission, and to the pastoral thrusts of Renewed Integral Evangelization and Building
Christian Communities. These pastoral guidelines have been approved for implementation ad
experimentum for several years now.
Therefore, after careful compilation and diligent review, in order to strengthen our mission
of evangelization, promote ecclesiastical discipline, and enhance our service to the People
of God, as provided by canons 383, 391, and 392 of the Code of Canon Law, I hereby
officially promulgate this compendium of pastoral policies, which shall be known as the
Diocesan Pastoral Manual, for full implementation and observance by all clergy, religious,
and lay faithful in the entire Diocese of Legazpi, effective immediately.
Subsequent duly approved additions and amendments to the policies contained herein shall be
formally announced to all the faithful in official diocesan circulars, and a compiled report of them
should be printed annually, until such a time when an updated edition of this manual would be
pastorally suitable to be printed.
Given this 6th day of August 2021, the 500th Year of Christianity in the Philippines.
+JOEL Z. BAYLON, DD
Bishop of Legazpi
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CONTENTS
Diocesan Vision and Mission Statement……………………………………………….........................i

Foreword…………………………………………………………………………………….....................ii
Decree of Promulgation………………………………………………………………………………….iii
Table of Contents…………………………………………………………………………………………iv
Acronyms and Abbreviations……………………………………………………………………………vii
Map of the Diocese of Legazpi…………………………………………………………………………..ix
Vicariates and Parishes of the Diocese of Legazpi…………………………………………………….x
Part I – General Policies
Diocesan Pastoral Structure………………………………………………………………..1
I. General Policies for the Diocesan Pastoral Council (DPC)………………………….2
A. Nature and Functions……………………………………………………………………2

B. Functions of the Various Pastoral Bodies in the Diocesan Pastoral Council……….3
C. Pastoral Commissions: Mission, Functions, and Structures………………………...4
1. Diocesan Commission on Worship………………………………………………..4
2. Diocesan Commission on Christian Education…………………………………..5
3. Diocesan Commission on Social Concerns………………………………………6
4. Diocesan Commission on Temporalities……………………………………….....7
5. Diocesan Commission on Ecclesial Communities……………………………….8
6. Diocesan Commission on Family and Life………………………………………..8
7. Diocesan Commission on Youth…………………………………………………..9
8. Diocesan Commission on Clergy and Consecrated Life……………………….10
II. General Policies for Vicarial Pastoral Councils (VPC)……………………………..11
A. Nature and Function…………………………………………………………………...11

B. Functions of Officers…………………………………………………………………...12
C. Functions of Vicarial Pastoral Commissions and Vicarial Pastoral Secretariat…..13
D. Tenure of Office………………………………………………………………………...13
E. Meetings ……………………………………………………………………………..…14
III. General Policies for Parish Pastoral Councils (PPC)………………………………15

B. Composition and Membership………………………………………………………..16
C. Functions of Officers…………………………………………………………………...16
D. Functions of the Executive Committee, Parish Commissions,
and Parish Pastoral Secretariat………………………………………………………18
1. Parish Commission on Worship………………………………………………….18
2. Parish Commission on Christian Education……………………………………..18
3. Parish Commission on Social Concerns………………………………………...18
4. Parish Commission on Temporalities……………………………………………18
5. Parish Commission on Ecclesial Communities…………………………………19
6. Parish Commission on Family and Life………………………………………….19
7. Parish Commission on Youth……………………………………………………..19
8. Parish Commission on Clergy and Consecrated Life…………………………..19
9. Parish Pastoral Secretariat……………………………………………………….19
E. Tenure of Office………………………………………………………………………...20
F. Meetings ………………………………………………………………………………..20
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IV. General Policies for Parish Finance Councils……………………………………….21

B. Specific Responsibilities………………………………………………………………21
C. Composition and Qualification of Members………………………………………….22
D. Functions of Officers…………………………………………………………………...23
F. Meetings ………………………………………………………………………………..23
V. General Policies for Barangay Pastoral Councils (BPC)…………………………..24

B. Composition and Membership………………………………………………………..24
C. Functions of Officers…………………………………………………………………...24
D. Functions of the Barangay Pastoral Commissions………………………………….25
F. Meetings ………………………………………………………………………………..26
Part II – Particular Policies
I. Policies on the Diocesan Council of the Laity…………………….27
A. Goals and Objectives………………………………………………………………….27

B. Membership…………………………………………………………………………….27
C. Organization ……………………………………………………………………………27
D. Formation……………………………………………………………………………….28
E. Responsibilities of Members………………………………………………………….28
F. Termination of Membership…………………………………………………………...28
G. Duties and Responsibilities of Officers……………………………………………….28
H. Tenure of Office………………………………………………………………………...29
I. Meetings ………………………………………………………………………………..29
J. Finance………………………………………………………………………………….29
II. Diocesan Commission on Worship……………………………………………………30
A. Diocesan Policies on the Administration of Sacraments……………………………30

1. Sacrament of Baptism……………………………………………………….........30
2. Sacrament of Confirmation …………………………………………………........31
3. Sacrament of Reconciliation……………………………………………………...31
4. Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist…………………………………………………32
5. Funeral and Wake Masses………………………………………………….........33
6. Sacrament of Marriage……………………………………………………………33
7. Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick………………………………………………35
B. Policies on the Sub-Commissions on Liturgical Ministries
and Sacred Music………………………………………………………………………36
1. Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion……………………………………36
2. Ministry of Lectors and Commentators…………………………………….........39
3. Ministry of Greeters, Collectors, and Communion Guides……………………..42
4. Ministry of Altar Servers…………………………………………………………...45
5. Sub-Commission on Sacred Music………………………………………………47
III. Diocesan Commission on Christian Education……………………………………...49
A. Legazpi Catechetical Ministry…………………………………………………………49

B. Sub-Commission on Biblical Apostolate……………………………………………..58
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C. Catholic Educational Association of Legazpi………………………………………..58
D. Sub-Commission on Renewal Movements and Programs…………………………61
E. Committee on Culture………………………………………………………………….62
F. Committee on Mission…………………………………………………………………62
G. Committee for the Doctrine of the Faith………………………………………………64
IV. Diocesan Commission on Social Concerns………………………………………….65
Policies of the Sub-Commission on Social Action…………………….65

A. TADÂ (Tanganing an Dukha Atamanon)…………………………………………….65
B. Parish Disaster Response Committee (PaDReCom)………………………………68
V. Diocesan Commission on Temporalities……………………………………………..70
General Policies of the Sub-Commission on Lands……………………………………..70

Sub-Commission on Buildings, Sites, and Cultural Heritage…………………………..71
Diocesan Cemetery Policies………………………………………………………………79
Policies for Parish Personnel……………………………………………80
VI. Diocesan Commission on Ecclesial Communities………………………………...113
A. Policies on the Integration of Ecclesial Movements and Communities

in the Parish…………………………………………………………………………...113
B. Policies on Pastoral Workers……………………………………...116
VII. Diocesan Commission on Family and Life………………………………………….119
Operational Policies …………………………………………………………………...119
VIII. Diocesan Commission on Youth……………………………………………………...122
Comprehensive Policies of the Commission on Youth…………......122
IX. Diocesan Commission on Clergy and Consecrated Life………………………….130
A. Diocesan Policies on Vocation Promotion………………………………………….130

B. Association of Consecrated Persons in Legazpi Constitution and By-Laws……132
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ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS
ACPIL Association of Consecrated Persons in Legazpi

AMCM Annual Meeting of Catechetical Ministers
BACS Bikol Association of Catholic Schools

BBS Basic Bible Seminar
BCBP Brotherhood of Christian Businessmen and Professionals
BEC Basic Ecclesial Community (also known as SAKOP)
BFF Basic Faith Formation
BPC Barangay Pastoral Council
CBCP Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines

CCC Catechism of the Catholic Church
CEAL Catholic Educational Association of Legazpi
CEAP Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines
CFC Couples for Christ
CGA Catholic Grandparents Association
DCCCL Diocesan Commission on Clergy and Consecrated Life

DCCE Diocesan Commission on Christian Education
DCEC Diocesan Commission on Ecclesial Communities
DCFL Diocesan Commission on Family and Life
DCL Diocesan Council of the Laity
DCSC Diocesan Commission on Social Concerns
DCT Diocesan Commission on Temporalities
DCW Diocesan Commission on Worship
DCY Diocesan Commission on Youth
DPC Diocesan Pastoral Council
DPP Diocesan Pastoral Plan
DRR-CCA Disaster Risk Reduction - Climate Change Adaptation
DRRMC Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils
DVP Directors of Vocation in the Philippines
ECCCE Episcopal Commission on Catechesis and Catholic Education

ECV Episcopal Commission on Vocations
EMC Ecclesial Movements and Communities
EMHC Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion
FDYOM Federation of Diocesan Youth Organizations and Movements
GIRM General Instruction of the Roman Missal
HARONG HArarom na pagRanga sa Orog na naNGangaipo

HELPED Healthcare, Education, Livelihood, Protection, Empowerment, DRR-CCA
LCM Legazpi Catechetical Ministry
MAS Ministry of Altar Servers

MBG Mother Butler Guild
MFC Missionary Families of Christ
MGCCG Ministry of Greeters, Collectors, and Communion Guides
MLC Ministry of Lectors and Commentators
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NCW Neocatechumenal Way
NEP New Evangelization Pastorale
NFP Natural Family Planning
NFP-FA Natural Family Planning - Fertility Awareness
OGF On-Going Formation
PaDReCom Parish Disaster Response Committee

PARDS Pastoral Assistance Research and Development Secretariat
PCCCL Parish Commission on Clergy and Consecrated Life
PCCE Parish Commission on Christian Education
PCEC Parish Commission on Ecclesial Communities
PCFL Parish Commission on Family and Life
PCP II Second Plenary Council of the Philippines (1991)
PCSC Parish Commission on Social Concerns
PCT Parish Commission on Temporalities
PCW Parish Commission on Worship
PCY Parish Commission on Youth
PFC Parish Finance Council
PPC Parish Pastoral Council
PREX Parish Renewal Experience
SAC Social Action Center

SAFE Subtle Attacks against the Family Explained
SAKOP Saradit na Komunidad nin Pagtubod (also known as BEC)
SPC Sitio Pastoral Council
TADÂ Tanganing an Dukha Atamanon
VCCCL Vicarial Commission on Clergy and Consecrated Life

VCCE Vicarial Commission on Christian Education
VCEC Vicarial Commission on Ecclesial Communities
VCFL Vicarial Commission on Family and Life
VCL Vicarial Council of the Laity
VCSC Vicarial Commission on Social Concerns
VCT Vicarial Commission on Temporalities
VCW Vicarial Commission on Worship
VCY Vicarial Commission on Youth
VPC Vicarial Pastoral Council
WESTECFLYC Worship, Christian Education, Social Concerns, Temporalities, Ecclesial

Communities, Family and Life, Youth, Clergy and Consecrated Life
YouCat Youth Catechesis

YSAC Youth for Social Action and Communication
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MAP OF THE DIOCESE OF LEGAZPI
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VICARIATES AND PARISHES OF THE DIOCESE OF LEGAZPI
A. Vicariate of Saint John the Baptist

1. Our Lady of Salvation Parish, Joroan, Tiwi, Albay
2. Saint Lawrence the Deacon Parish, Tiwi, Albay
3. Saints Joachim and Anne Parish, Malinao, Albay
4. Saint Nicholas of Tolentino Parish, Estancia, Malinao, Albay
5. Saint John the Baptist Parish, Tabaco City
6. Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Tayhi, Tabaco City
7. Holy Family Parish, Panal, Tabaco City
8. Saint Vincent Ferrer Parish, San Vicente, Tabaco City
9. Saint Anthony of Padua Parish, San Antonio, Tabaco City
10. Saint Michael the Archangel Parish, San Miguel, Tabaco City
B. Vicariate of Saint Rose of Lima

1. Saint Rose of Lima Parish, Bacacay, Albay
2. Saint John Paul II Quasi-Parish, Pili Iraya, Bacacay, Albay
3. Saint John Nepomucene Parish, Bonga, Bacacay, Albay
4. Sacred Heart Parish, Cabasan, Bacacay, Albay
5. Saint Joseph the Worker Parish, Villahermosa, Rapu-Rapu, Albay
6. Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish, Malilipot, Albay
7. Saint Dominic of Guzman Parish, Santo Domingo, Albay
C. Vicariate of Saint Raphael the Archangel

1. Saint Vincent Ferrer Parish, Bigaa, Legazpi City
2. Saint Padre Pio Parish, Rawis, Legazpi City
3. Saint Raphael the Archangel Parish, Legazpi City
4. Saint Jude Thaddeus Parish, Lapu-Lapu Street, Legazpi City
5. Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Imelda C. Roces Avenue, Legazpi City
6. Santa Florentina Parish, Rapu-Rapu, Albay
7. San Ramon Nonato Parish, Tagas, Daraga, Albay
D. Vicariate of Saint Gregory the Great

1. Saint Raphael the Archangel Parish, Manito, Albay
2. Saint Joseph the Worker Parish, Banquerohan, Legazpi City
3. Saint Roche Parish, Taysan, Legazpi City
4. Saint Gregory the Great Cathedral Parish, Albay District, Legazpi City
5. Our Lady of the Gate Parish, Daraga, Albay
6. Our Lady of Salvation Parish, Anislag, Daraga, Albay
7. Our Lady of the Assumption Parish, Malabog, Daraga, Albay
8. Saint John the Baptist Parish, Camalig, Albay
9. Saint Lawrence the Martyr Quasi-Parish, Cotmon, Camalig, Albay
E. Vicariate of Saint Stephen the Protomartyr

1. Our Lady of the Assumption Parish, Guinobatan, Albay
2. Saint John the Baptist Parish, Jovellar, Albay
3. Saint Vincent Ferrer Parish, Mauraro, Guinobatan, Albay
4. Saint Stephen the Protomartyr Parish, Ligao City
5. Saint John XXIII Quasi-Parish, Batang, Ligao City
6. Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish, Paulba, Ligao City
7. Our Lady of Salvation Parish, Pio Duran, Albay
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F. Vicariate of Saints Peter and Paul
1. Saint Michael the Archangel Parish, Oas, Albay
2. Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish, Balogo, Oas, Albay
3. Saints Peter and Paul Parish, Polangui, Albay
4. Saint Anthony of Padua Parish, Ponso, Polangui, Albay
5. Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, Lidong, Polangui, Albay
6. Saint Dominic of Guzman Parish, Matacon, Polangui, Albay
7. Saint James the Greater Parish, Libon, Albay
8. Saint Raphael the Archangel Parish, Pantao, Libon, Albay
9. Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Parish, Badian, Oas, Albay
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PART I – GENERAL POLICIES
I. GENERAL POLICIES FOR THE DIOCESAN PASTORAL COUNCIL (DPC)
A. NATURE AND FUNCTIONS
1. The DIOCESAN PASTORAL COUNCIL (DPC) shall assist the bishop in the
governance of the whole diocese, in the area of pastoral action. In particular, it shall
be the body tasked to direct the implementation of the Diocesan Pastoral Plan. The
Bishop presides over the Council.
Canon 511. In every diocese and to the extent that pastoral circumstances suggest
it, a pastoral council is to be constituted which under the authority of the bishop
investigates, considers, and proposes practical conclusions about those things
which pertain to pastoral works in the diocese.
Canon 512 §1. A pastoral council consists of members of the Christian faithful who
are in full communion with the Catholic Church—clerics, members of institutes of
consecrated life, and especially laity—who are designated in a manner determined
by the diocesan bishop.
§2. The Christian faithful who are designated to a pastoral council are to be
selected in such a way that they truly reflect the entire portion of the people of God
which constitutes the diocese, with consideration given to the different areas of the
diocese, social conditions and professions, and the role which they have in the
apostolate whether individually or joined with others.
§3. No one except members of the Christian faithful outstanding in firm faith, good
morals, and prudence is to be designated to a pastoral council.
Can. 513 §1. A pastoral council is constituted for a period of time according to the
prescripts of the statutes which are issued by the bishop.
§2. When the see is vacant, a pastoral council ceases.
2. It shall be composed of the Vicars General, Vicars Forane, Clergy Chairs and Lay Co-
Chairs of the various Pastoral Commissions, Moderator and Chair of the Diocesan
Council of the Laity, Oeconomus, Chancellor, Executive Secretary, and other persons
whom the Bishop appoints.
3. The Diocesan Pastoral Council shall regularly meet every quarter. Regular agenda
shall be reporting and evaluation of pastoral accomplishments of the previous quarter
and planning for the next quarter. There shall also be an annual pastoral evaluation,
planning, and budget approval meeting.
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B. FUNCTIONS OF THE VARIOUS PASTORAL BODIES IN THE DIOCESAN PASTORAL
COUNCIL
1. The OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE within the DPC is tasked by the Bishop to monitor the
implementation of the Diocesan Pastoral Plan, oversee the operations of the various
commissions, and approve the annual budgets of the various commissions and offices
in the DPC. It shall also be in-charge of the conduct of meetings of the Clergy General
Assembly and shall be present in the meetings of the Diocesan Council of the Laity.
The Oversight Committee shall be composed of the Vicars General and Oeconomus.
2. The DPC shall be assisted by the PASTORAL ASSISTANCE, RESEARCH AND

DEVELOPMENT SECRETARIAT (PARDS), which shall be headed by the DPC
Executive Secretary and shall have the following functions:
a. Planning and Development Assistance: prepare the necessary tools and

processes for the Diocesan Pastoral Assembly and other periodic planning and
evaluation schedules; and respond to emerging needs of diocesan
commissions, vicariates, parishes, and other pastoral bodies that require
assistance.
b. Research and Monitoring: assist the Council in monitoring the implementation

of the Diocesan Pastoral Plan; set-up and maintain the Diocesan Pastoral
Database which contains important and relevant information on the pastoral
life of the diocese; and conduct relevant research and studies.
c. Secretariat and Operations: record and keep the minutes of the Council and
Oversight Committee meetings; disseminate relevant updates and information
on the Diocesan Pastoral Plan; take charge of coordination and communication
among the various offices and bodies within the Council; and maintain close
collaboration with all vicariate and parish Pastoral Secretariats.
3. The CLERGY GENERAL ASSEMBLY shall be composed of the presbyterium of the

diocese – diocesan and religious – and shall recommend legislations and policies to
the Bishop and help in the implementation of DPC programs and projects.
4. The DIOCESAN COUNCIL OF THE LAITY (DCL) shall be composed of the Lay Chairs
of Parish Pastoral Councils and shall recommend legislations and policies to the
Bishop and help in the implementation of DPC programs and projects. See page 27
for the policies on this Council.
5. The VICARIAL PASTORAL COUNCILS (VPC) shall assist Vicars Forane in the task
of coordination and collaboration of various pastoral programs and projects among the
parishes within their respective territories.
6. The VICARIAL PASTORAL COUNCILS (VPC) shall be composed of the Vicar Forane
as Chair, Pastors and Parish Administrators, Superiors of Religious communities, and
Clergy and Lay Chairs and Co-Chairs of Pastoral Commissions in the Vicarial level.
There shall also be a VPC Secretary and Treasurer.
7. The PARISH PASTORAL COUNCILS (PPC) shall assist the Pastor or Parish
Administrator in the promotion of the pastoral life of the parish, specifically the task of
implementing the various pastoral programs and projects of the Diocesan Pastoral
Plan articulated in the context of the parish in the Parish Pastoral Plan.
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8. The PARISH PASTORAL COUNCILS (PPC) shall be composed of the Pastor or
Parish Administrator as Chair, a Lay Co-Chair, Parochial Vicars, Superiors of religious
communities present in the parish, Chairs of Pastoral Commissions in the parish and
the Chairs of Barangay Pastoral Councils and Sitio Pastoral Councils or their
representatives. There shall also be a PPC Secretary and Treasurer.
9. The BARANGAY/SITIO/PUROK PASTORAL COUNCIL shall be the grassroots unit

for the implementation of the Parish Pastoral Plan and the center for the promotion of
Saradit na Komunidad nin Pagtubod (SAKOP) in the barangay.
10. The BARANGAY/SITIO/PUROK PASTORAL COUNCIL shall be composed of a Chair,

Assistant Chair, Secretary, Treasurer, and the Chairs of the Pastoral Commissions in
the barangay. The Chair and other officers shall be appointed by the Pastor, either
following the result of an election or by direct appointment, whichever is more
pastorally appropriate.
C. PASTORAL COMMISSIONS: MISSION, FUNCTIONS, AND STRUCTURES
There are eight (8) Pastoral Commissions whose task is to implement the Diocesan Pastoral
Plan (DPP).
1. DIOCESAN COMMISSION ON WORSHIP
a. Mission: Animate the faithful to a full, active and conscious participation in

Christian life and worship through continuing formation of liturgical ministers
and strengthen the devotion to our Mother of Salvation
b. The Commission shall have the following functions:
i. Assist parishes in the meaningful celebration of the Eucharist, and

enliven the faith life of the diocese and parish communities through liturgy
and prayer.
ii. Propose and promote liturgical norms and policies in the diocese. See
page 30 for diocesan policies on the administration of Sacraments.
iii. Build the capacity of various liturgical ministries and train liturgical
ministers.
iv. Monitor, regulate, and promote devotional practices, and support Church
organizations centered on popular devotions.
c. The Commission shall have the following Sub-Commissions:
i. SUB-COMMISSION ON LITURGICAL MINISTRIES, which shall

oversee the concerns of the Extraordinary Ministers of Holy
Communion (EMHC), Ministry of Lectors and Commentators (MLC),
Mother Butler Guild (MBG), Ministry of Greeters, Collectors, and
Communion Guides (MGCCG), and Ministry of Altar Servers (MAS).
See page 36 for the policies on these liturgical ministries.
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ii. SUB-COMMISSION ON SACRED MUSIC, which shall oversee the
concerns of Choir groups, and the use of appropriate music in liturgical
celebrations. See page 47 for the diocesan policies on music ministry.
iii. SUB-COMMISSION ON POPULAR DEVOTIONS, which shall oversee

the concerns of Church organizations centered on popular devotions
and various devotional practices existing in the diocese.
2. DIOCESAN COMMISSION ON CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
a. Mission: Proclaim the Word of God to the families, the poor and the youth in
the pursuit of Renewed Integral Evangelization towards integration of faith and
life
i. Assist in the work of evangelization through education and formation;
ii. Oversee the Legazpi Catechetical Ministry (LCM) in implementing the

diocese’s catechetical programs;
iii. Promote the Bible Apostolate and its programs;
iv. Regulate, promote, and develop various Adult Renewal Programs;
v. Coordinate with the Catholic Educational Association of Legazpi

(CEAL);
vi. Promote and implement pastoral concerns on Culture, Mission, and the
Doctrine of the Faith.
c. The Commission shall have the following Sub-Commissions. See page 49 for
their policies.
i. LEGAZPI CATECHETICAL MINISTRY, which shall provide quality

catechetical instruction to public school students, and engaging
catechesis in preparation for the celebration of sacraments;
ii. SUB-COMMISSION ON BIBLICAL APOSTOLATE, which shall

promote deeper understanding and regular reading of the Bible among
the faithful;
iii. CATHOLIC EDUCATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF LEGAZPI, which shall

take charge of the concerns of Catholic schools in the diocese and their
integration in the parish communities where they are present;
iv. SUB-COMMISSION ON RENEWAL MOVEMENTS AND

PROGRAMS, which shall provide opportunities for conversion
experience and renewal to adult parishioners;
v. COMMITTEE ON CULTURE, which shall promote the encounter

between the saving Message of the Gospel and the culture of our times,
and undertake initiatives to promote dialogue between faith and
cultures;
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vi. COMMITTEE ON MISSION, which shall foster the missionary activity
of the diocese, promote the spirit of the missions, and develop
missionary awareness among the faithful; and
vii. COMMITTEE FOR THE DOCTRINE OF THE FAITH, which shall

promote and safeguard the unity of faith and morals in the diocese and
inform and explain to the faithful doctrinal teachings and pastoral
exhortations coming from the Pope, Vatican offices, the Bishops
Conference, and the Bishop of the diocese.
3. DIOCESAN COMMISSION ON SOCIAL CONCERNS
a. Mission: Empower communities to become compassionate witnesses, truthful

communicators and dynamic advocates of Christ and His Gospel
i. Engage the faithful in the diocese in practicing the faith in view of being
a Church of the Poor, and addressing concerns on justice, peace, and
integrity of creation;
ii. Develop and implement social action programs and projects; and
iii. Operate the various media of communication of the diocese for

evangelization and development of people.
c. The Commission shall have the following Sub-Commissions and Clusters:
i. SUB-COMMISSION ON SOCIAL ACTION, which shall spearhead the

engagement of the Local Church in the areas of development, socio-
political advocacy, and humanitarian aid, through the following
development clusters:
(a) TADÂ (Tanganing An Dukha Atamanon), the flagship poverty

reduction advocacy program of the diocese. See page 65 for
the policies of this program.
(b) HEALTHCARE which improves health-seeking behavior and

access to quality healthcare among the poor, and assists in
maintaining health protocols and sanitation in churches and
Church-related gatherings;
(c) EDUCATION which strengthens initiatives to improve quality of

life through education;
(d) LIVELIHOOD which provides opportunities for socio-economic

development for the poor;
(e) PROTECTION which protects the rights and dignity of women,

children, the unborn, and other vulnerable sectors;
(f) EMPOWERMENT which promotes genuine people’s

participation in good governance; and
6
(g) DRR-CCA which cares for our common home, responds to
disaster emergencies, and builds safe and resilient communities.
See page 68 for the policies on the Parish Disaster Response
Committee (PaDReCom).
ii. SUB-COMMISSION ON SOCIAL COMMUNICATION, which shall

synergize the operations of the various media outlets of the diocese in
order to spread the Good News of salvation and inform and connect
people for empowerment and development.
4. DIOCESAN COMMISSION ON TEMPORALITIES
a. Mission: Steward the temporal goods and resources of the diocese for its
sustainability and welfare
i. Assist the Bishop in managing the temporal goods and resources of the
diocese, particularly in matters of human resource, cemeteries,
buildings, sites, and cultural heritage; and
ii. Ensure the implementation of diocesan policies on temporalities.
c. The Commission shall have the following Sub-Commissions. See page 70 for
their policies.
i. SUB-COMMISSION ON LANDS, which shall manage the real

properties of the diocese.
ii. SUB-COMMISSION ON BUILDINGS, SITES, AND CULTURAL

HERITAGE, which shall regulate improvements in and constructions of
churches and other facilities; and promote and protect cultural and
historical heritage sites and artifacts.
iii. SUB-COMMISSION ON CEMETERIES, which shall develop, operate,

and maintain Catholic cemeteries in the diocese.
iv. SUB-COMMISSION ON HUMAN RESOURCE, which shall ensure the

training and, formation, just remuneration and benefits, and welfare of
church employees in parishes and other church institutions.
Note: While the Diocesan Commission on Temporalities is a tool for the

implementation of the pastoral programs of the diocese, it also forms part of the
administration of the diocese.
5. DIOCESAN COMMISSION ON ECCLESIAL COMMUNITIES
a. Mission: Build and sustain the communion of the faithful into life-giving
communities witnessing to Christ and His Gospel.
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i. Promote the building of Christian communities and membership to
them of the faithful;
ii. Spearhead the organization and formation of Pastoral Councils in

barangays (BPCs), sitios (SPCs) and puroks, and Basic Ecclesial
Communities (BEC) or Saradit na Komunidad nin Pagtubod (SAKOP);
and
iii. Regulate the presence and apostolate of other ecclesial movements

and communities in the diocese.
i. SUB-COMMISSION ON BEC-SAKOP, which shall help parishes

organize, animate, and sustain Basic Ecclesial Communities (BEC) or
Saradit na Komunidad nin Pagtubod (SAKOP); and
ii. SUB-COMMISSION ON ECCLESIAL MOVEMENTS AND

COMMUNITIES (EMC), which shall regulate ecclesial movements and
communities and help them integrate their members for mission in
parishes. See page 113 for the policies on the integration of EMCs in
the parish.
Note: Pastoral workers are lay persons who assist in the mission of
building and sustaining the communion of the faithful into life-giving
communities. See page 116 for the policies on pastoral workers.
6. DIOCESAN COMMISSION ON FAMILY AND LIFE
a. Mission: Empower families towards the fullness of life in Christ and radiate the
gift of life and love to others
i. Promote the culture of life among the faithful in the diocese;
ii. Prepare couples for married life, and sustain the fidelity and growth in
faith of families; and
iii. Engage in relevant pro-life advocacies, especially for families in difficult

situations.
Note: See page 119 for the operational policies of this Commission.
i. SUB-COMMISSION ON VOCATION TO MARRIAGE, which shall take

charge of promoting Pre-Cana Seminars, Post-Cana Retreats, and the
Marriage Encounter program in parishes;
ii. SUB-COMMISSION ON NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING, which shall

conduct information and education campaign so couples and women
8
of reproductive age practice Natural Family Planning (NFP) as a way
of life;
iii. SUB-COMMISSION ON PASTORAL CARE FOR FAMILIES OF

MIGRANTS AND ITINERANTS, which shall provide integral
evangelization and formation to families of migrants and itinerants, and
returning OFWs;
iv. SUB-COMMISSION ON COUNSELING SERVICES, which shall

accompany couples and families in difficult situations; and
v. CATHOLIC GRANDPARENTS ASSOCIATION (CGA), which shall

strengthen the spiritual life of grandparents so they may be able to
transmit the gift of faith and traditional values to their families.
7. DIOCESAN COMMISSION ON YOUTH
a. Mission: Journey with the young with an integral faith formation that they may
become committed evangelizers and dynamic servant-leaders.
i. Take care of the organization and formation of young people in the

parish; and
ii. Engage the young to get more involved in parish life and in responding
to pressing social issues and concerns.
Note: See page 122 for the comprehensive policies on this Commission.
i. SUB-COMMISSION ON YOUTH FORMATION, which shall provide a

comprehensive, integrated and developmental formation program for
the youth;
ii. SUB-COMMISSION ON CAMPUS MINISTRY, which shall engage

young people in school settings to grow in faith and involvement in the
Church;
iii. SUB-COMMISSION ON YOUTH FOR SOCIAL ACTION AND

COMMUNICATION (YSAC), which shall engage the youth in practicing
the faith in view of being a Church of the Poor, and addressing concerns
on justice, peace, and integrity of creation; and
iii. FEDERATION OF DIOCESAN YOUTH ORGANIZATIONS AND

MOVEMENTS (FDYOM), which shall regulate and collaborate with
youth ministries of ecclesial movements and communities and help
them integrate their members for mission in the diocese.
8. DIOCESAN COMMISSION ON CLERGY AND CONSECRATED LIFE
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a. Mission: Form and nurture the clergy, consecrated life and seminarians who
are inspired and inspiring, competent, and committed shepherds after the heart
of Christ.
i. Take charge of clergy on-going formation, healthcare, retirement,

welfare, and other special needs;
ii. Integrate seminaries and formation programs of diocesan seminarians

and communities of consecrated life in the life and mission of the
diocese;
iii. Implement an effective Vocation Promotion Program in the diocese.
c. The Commission shall have the following Sub-Commissions and organizations:
i. SUB-COMMISSION ON ON-GOING FORMATION, which shall take

charge of the integral on-going training and formation of clergy.
ii. SUB-COMMISSION ON CLERGY WELFARE, which shall implement

the Clergy Stewardship Program and ensure that diocesan clergy have
adequate healthcare and retirement protection.
iii. SUB-COMMISSION ON VOCATION PROMOTION, which shall

conduct a vocation promotion program in the diocese in collaboration
with communities of consecrated life, and organize and support
vocation promotion in parishes. See page 130 for the policies on this
Sub-Commission.
iv. SEMINARY BOARD, which shall take charge of seminaries and

formation programs of seminarians, suited to their various stages of
development and adapted to the pastoral needs of the diocese.
v. ASSOCIATION OF CONSECRATED PERSONS IN LEGAZPI (ACPIL),

which shall organize male and female communities of consecrated life
in the diocese, and integrate their respective charisms in the life and
mission of the diocese. See page 132 for the Constitution and By-Laws
of ACPIL.
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II. GENERAL POLICIES FOR VICARIAL PASTORAL COUNCILS (VPC)
A. NATURE AND FUNCTION
“The VICARIAL PASTORAL COUNCILS (VPC) shall assist Vicars Forane in the task of
coordination and collaboration of various pastoral programs and projects among the parishes
within their respective territories” (General Policies for the Diocesan Pastoral Council, no. II.5).
“The VICARIAL PASTORAL COUNCILS (VPC) shall be composed of the Vicar Forane as
Chair, Pastors and Parish Administrators, Superiors of Religious communities, and Clergy
and Lay Chairs and Co-Chairs of Pastoral Commissions in the Vicarial level. There shall also
be a VPC Secretary and Treasurer” (General Policies for the Diocesan Pastoral Council, no.
II.6).
1. The Chairs of Vicarial Pastoral Commissions shall be voted upon by the Vicarial Clergy
and Religious Assembly and confirmed by the Vicar Forane. The Chairs of these
commissions, in turn nominate their Lay Co-Chairs to the Vicar Forane. The Vicar
Forane appoints the VPC Secretary and Treasurer.
2. The VPC shall be assisted by a Vicarial Pastoral Secretariat, to be headed by the VPC
Secretary, with the secretaries of the Vicarial Pastoral Commissions and other
competent individuals that the Vicar Forane may appoint as members.
3. In the Vicariate, there shall exist these pastoral bodies that shall be headed and
moderated by the Vicar Forane:
a. The VICARIAL CLERGY AND RELIGIOUS ASSEMBLY shall be composed of

the clergy and religious men and women in the vicariate and shall recommend
legislations and policies for the vicariate and the diocese, and help in the
implementation of VPC programs, projects, and activities.
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b. The VICARIAL COUNCIL OF THE LAITY shall be composed of the Lay Chairs
of Parish Pastoral Councils in the vicariate and shall recommend legislations
and policies for the vicariate and the diocese, and help in the implementation
of VPC programs, projects, and activities.
B. FUNCTIONS OF OFFICERS
1. The VPC shall have the following set of officers:
a. Chair, who is the Vicar Forane

b. Assistant Chair, who is the Assistant Vicar Forane
c. Secretary
d. Treasurer
e. Commission Chairs
2. The Vicar Forane as ex officio Chair of the Vicarial Pastoral Council shall have the
following functions:
a. Call and preside over VPC meetings;

b. Determine the Council agenda;
c. Direct the workings of the Council;
d. Assign particular pastoral and ministerial tasks; and
e. Maintain discipline and order in the council.
3. The Assistant Vicar Forane as ex officio Assistant Chair of the Vicarial Pastoral
Council shall have the following functions:
a. Preside over VPC meetings in the absence of the Vicar Forane, or whenever
assigned to do so by the Vicar Forane;
b. Temporarily take over the functions of the VPC Chair in case of prolonged
absence or incapacity of the Chair, until the appointment of a new Vicar Forane
by the Bishop; and
c. Attend to other tasks that the Vicar Forane or VPC may assign.
4. The Secretary shall have the following functions:
a. Chair the Vicarial Pastoral Secretariat;

b. Issue notices for Council meetings and dispatch all needed communications;
c. Prepare the venue of Council meetings, inclusive of needed equipment and
materials, in coordination with the host parish or community;
d. Write the minutes of Council meetings and keep all pertinent records; and
e. Attend to other secretarial tasks that the Council may require from time to time.
5. The Treasurer shall have the following functions:
a. Chair the Vicarial Finance Council;

b. Ensure transparency and accountability of all financial transactions, and keep
a record of all financial concerns of the Vicarial Pastoral Council;
c. Act as the collecting and disbursing officer of the Council with the authorization
of the same, always ready to render an accounting of Council fund; and
d. Submit and post timely regular financial reports.
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6. The Commission Chairpersons shall have the following functions:
a. Call and preside over Commission meetings;

b. Coordinate the programs, projects, and activities of the Commission in
consultation with the Vicar Forane and Diocesan Chair of their Commission;
c. Confer with the Vicar Forane regarding agenda or concerns of the Commission
that are related to the agenda or concerns of the Council;
d. Consult with and report to the Vicar Forane regarding the standing work and
tasks assigned to the Commission;
e. Be an ex-officio member of all member organizations and ministries under their
Commission.
C. FUNCTIONS OF VICARIAL PASTORAL COMMISSIONS AND VICARIAL PASTORAL

SECRETARIAT
1. Every Vicarial Pastoral Commission shall serve as venue and conduit for collaboration
and mutual support among parishes in the Vicariate, as well as facilitator of training
and formation programs for officers and members of their respective commissions.
2. Every Vicarial Pastoral Commission shall have the same mission, functions, and
structure of sub-commissions and member organizations as their parish-level
counterparts in order to better serve as a hub for collaboration in ministry and formation
among parishes in the vicariate.
3. The Vicarial Pastoral Secretariat shall function as follows:

processes for the annual vicarial planning; and respond to emerging needs of
each Vicarial Pastoral Commission that require assistance.

of the Vicarial Pastoral Plan; organize the Vicarial Pastoral Database
containing important and relevant information on the pastoral life of the parish;
and conduct relevant research and studies.
c. Secretariat and Operations: record and keep the minutes of the Council and
Vicarial Pastoral Commissions meetings; prepare data for proper information
dissemination of relevant updates on the Vicarial Pastoral Plan; take charge of
the coordination and communication among the various individuals and bodies
within the Council; and maintain close collaboration with the diocesan Pastoral
Assistance, Research and Development Secretariat (PARDS).
D. TENURE OF OFFICE
1. The Vicar Forane shall hold office as Chair of the Vicarial Pastoral Council as long as
he keeps his tenure as such in the vicariate. The same shall also apply to the Assistant
Vicar Forane and Commission Chairs; they shall be officers of the Council as long as
they are assigned in the vicariate.
2. Officers and members of the Vicarial Pastoral Council shall hold office concurrent with
their assignment within the vicariate.
3. There shall be a process of selection at the beginning of the term, or whenever an

officer needs to be replaced.
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E. MEETINGS
1. Regular Vicarial Pastoral Council meetings shall be held at least quarterly.
2. Regular Vicarial Clergy and Religious Meetings shall be held monthly and shall serve
alternately or in combination, as business meeting, or formation session, or
recreational bonding.
3. Regular Vicarial Commission meetings shall be held monthly.
4. Special meetings may be called as the need arises.
5. A simple majority (50% plus one) of the members of the Council shall constitute a
quorum.
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III. GENERAL POLICIES FOR PARISH PASTORAL COUNCILS (PPC)
“The PARISH PASTORAL COUNCIL (PPC) shall assist the Pastor or Parish Administrator in
the promotion of the pastoral life of the parish, specifically the task of implementing the various
pastoral programs and projects of the Diocesan Pastoral Plan articulated in the context of the
parish in the Parish Pastoral Plan” (General Policies for the Diocesan Pastoral Council, no.
II.7).
Synodal Decree 104: The establishment of a Parish Pastoral Council in every

parish of the diocese should be made as an important step toward the renewal of
the Christian life of the community. Its establishment, however, should have a
provision for the appropriate training and formation of its officer and workers. (First
Legazpi Diocesan Synod 2000)
Canon 536. §1. After the diocesan bishop has listened to the presbyteral council
and if he judges it opportune, a pastoral council is to be established in each parish;
the pastor presides over it, and through it the Christian faithful along with those
who share in the pastoral care of the parish in virtue of their office give their help
in fostering pastoral activity.
§2. This pastoral council possesses a consultative vote only and is governed by
norms determined by the diocesan bishop.
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B. COMPOSITION AND MEMBERSHIP
“The PARISH PASTORAL COUNCILS (PPC) shall be composed of the Pastor or Parish
Administrator as Chair, a Lay Co-Chair, Parochial Vicars, Superiors of religious communities
present in the parish, Chairs of Pastoral Commissions in the parish and the Chairs of
Barangay Pastoral Councils and Sitio Pastoral Councils or their representatives. There shall
also be a PPC Secretary and Treasurer” (General Policies for the Diocesan Pastoral Council,
no. II.8).
1. The Pastor or Parish Administrator shall appoint the PPC Lay Co-Chair from a terna
nominated by the Chairs of Commissions and BPCs. The nominees for Lay Co-Chair
should be active lay parishioners of good standing in the community. The Pastor or
Parish Administrator shall also appoint the PPC Secretary and Treasurer.
2. The Chairs of the Pastoral Commissions in the parish shall be selected according to
the following process:
a. All heads of organizations or ministry under a commission shall convene and

nominate from among themselves a terna for chairperson. If the commission
has very few members, they can select the nominees from among themselves.
b. The Pastor or Parish Administrator shall appoint the chairpersons of the

Commissions from the terna submitted to him by the commission members.
3. A PPC Executive Committee shall be formed composed of the Pastor or Parish

Administrator, Lay Co-Chair, Parochial Vicars, Secretary, Treasurer, Commission
Chairs and cluster representatives of Barangay Pastoral Councils.
4. The Council shall be assisted by a Parish Pastoral Secretariat, to be headed by the

PPC Secretary, with the secretaries of the parish pastoral commissions and other
competent individuals that the Pastor may appoint as members.
C. FUNCTIONS OF OFFICERS
1. The PPC shall have the following set of officers:
a. Chair, who is the Pastor or Parish Administrator

b. Lay Co-chair
c. Secretary
d. Treasurer
2. The Pastor or Parish Administrator as ex officio Chairman of the Parish Pastoral

Council shall have the following functions:
a. Call and preside over Council meetings;

b. Determine the council agenda;
c. Direct the workings of the Council;
d. Assign particular pastoral and ministerial tasks; and
e. Maintain discipline and order in the Council.
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3. The Lay Co-chair shall have the following functions:
a. Preside over the Council meeting whenever assigned to do so by the Pastor

or Parish Administrator;
b. Represent the Pastor or Parish Administrator at their instance in meetings,
events and functions where parish representation is called for, and thereafter
renders a report about their representation to the Pastor or Parish
Administrator;
c. Coordinate the programs, projects, and activities of the Council in consultation
with the Pastor or Parish Administrator;
d. Be an ex-officio member of all Commissions and Ad hoc Committees for
purposes of coordinated collaboration; and
e. Represent the Parish in the vicarial and diocesan levels of the Council of the
Laity.
a. Chair the Parish Pastoral Secretariat;

b. Issue notices for Council meetings and dispatch all needed communications;
c. Prepare the venue of Council meetings, inclusive of needed equipment and
materials;
d. Write the minutes of Council meetings and keep all pertinent records;
e. Coordinate with a parish staff for safekeeping of all pertinent records and
documents of the Council, and update the parish staff for pertinent information
regarding the parish plan; and
f. Attend to other secretarial tasks that the Council may require from time to time.
a. Co-chair the Parish Finance Council (PFC);

b. Ensure transparency and accountability of all financial transactions, and keep
a record of all financial concerns of the Parish Pastoral Council;
c. Act as the disbursing officer of the Council with the authorization of the same,
always ready to render an accounting of Council fund; and
d. Submit and post timely regular financial reports.

b. Coordinate the programs, projects, and activities of the Commission in
consultation with the Pastor or Parish Administrator;
c. Confer with the Pastor or Parish Administrator regarding agenda or concerns
of the Commission that are related to the agenda or concerns of the Council;
d. Consult with and report to the Pastor or Parish Administrator regarding the
standing work and tasks assigned to the Commission;
e. Be an ex-officio member of all member organizations and ministries under the
Commission.
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D. FUNCTIONS OF THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE, PARISH COMMISSIONS, AND PARISH
PASTORAL SECRETARIAT
1. The PPC Executive Committee shall be tasked to facilitate the work of the Council and
prepare the agenda for each regular Council meeting.
2. Every Commission shall work within the parameters of its given competence and
assigned work; draw its plan of programs, projects, and activities; and present these
to the Pastor or Parish Administrator for approval.
3. The competence and function of every Parish Commission shall be as follows:
a. Parish Commission on Worship
i. Assist the pastor in the meaningful celebration of the Eucharist and

enliven the faith life of the parish community through liturgy and prayer.
ii. Implement liturgical norms and policies in the parish.
iii. Develop various liturgical ministries, and form and train liturgical
ministers.
iv. Encourage devotional practices and provide oversight and support to
Church organizations centered on popular devotions.
b. Parish Commission on Christian Education
i. Assist the pastor in the work of evangelization in the parish, through

education and formation.
ii. Oversee the Parish Catechetical Ministry and help implement the Parish
Catechetical Program.
iii. Promote the Parish Bible Apostolate and its programs.
iv. Direct the conduct and development of the various adult renewal
programs, e.g., PREX, NEP, and Cursillo.
c. Parish Commission on Social Concerns
i. Engage the parish community in practicing the faith in view of being a

Church of the Poor, and addressing concerns and issues on justice,
peace, and integrity of creation.
ii. Develop and implement parish social action programs and projects.
iii. Collaborate with Radyo Veritas Legazpi and various media outlets of the
diocese.
d. Parish Commission on Temporalities
i. Assist the pastor in the task of managing the temporal goods and
resources of the parish, particularly in matters of human resource,
cemeteries, buildings, sites, and cultural heritages.
ii. Implement the policies contained in the comprehensive Diocesan
Temporalities Manual, which includes seeking prior approval from the
Diocesan Commission on Temporalities for improvements and
construction that require it.
iii. Collaborate with the Parish Finance Council, the body tasked to assist
the Pastor or Parish Administrator on matters concerning finance and
financial oversight.
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e. Parish Commission on Ecclesial Communities
i. Promote the building of Christian communities, and membership to them

of the faithful in the parish.
ii. Spearhead the organization and formation of Pastoral Councils in
barangays (BPCs), sitios (SPCs) and puroks, and Basic Ecclesial
Communities (BEC) or Saradit na Komunidad nin Pagtubod (SAKOP).
iii. Regulate the presence and apostolate of other ecclesial movements and
communities in the parish.
f. Parish Commission on Family and Life
i. Promote the culture of life among the faithful in the parish.

ii. Prepare couples for married life and sustain the fidelity and growth in
faith of families.
iii. Engage in relevant pro-life advocacies, especially for families in difficult
situations.
g. Parish Commission on Youth
i. Take care of the organization and formation of young people in the

parish.
ii. Engage the young to get more involved in parish life and in responding
to pressing social issues and concerns.
h. Parish Commission on Clergy and Consecrated Life
i. Assist the Pastor and the Diocesan Vocation Director in implementing an

effective Vocation Promotion Program in the parish.
4. The Parish Pastoral Secretariat shall function as follows:

processes for the annual parish planning; and respond to emerging needs of
each Parish Commission that require short-term interventions.

of the Parish Pastoral Plan; organize the Parish Pastoral Database containing
important and relevant information on the pastoral life of the parish; and
conduct relevant research and studies.
c. Secretariat and Operations: record and keep the minutes of the Council,
Executive Committee and Parish Commissions meetings; prepare data for
proper information dissemination of relevant updates on the Parish Pastoral
Plan; take charge of the coordination and communication among the various
individuals and bodies within the Council; and maintain close collaboration with
the diocesan Pastoral Assistance, Research and Development Secretariat
(PARDS).
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E. TENURE OF OFFICE
1. The Pastor or Parish Administrator shall hold office as Chair of the Parish Pastoral
Council as long as he keeps his tenure as such in the parish. The same shall also
apply to Parochial Vicars; they shall be members of the Council as long as they are
assigned in the parish.
2. Officers and members of the Parish Pastoral Council shall hold office for three years,
renewable for another term only.
3. There shall be a process of selection at the end of the term.
4. Successive absence in regular meetings without a legitimate excuse is a ground for

termination of membership in the Council.
5. The Commission or unit represented by the terminated Parish Pastoral Council

member shall recommend their replacement to the Pastor or Parish Administrator.
F. MEETINGS
1. Regular Council meeting shall be held at least quarterly.
2. Regular Executive Committee meeting shall be held a few days before each PPC
quarterly meeting.
3. Regular Commission meeting shall be held monthly.
quorum.
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IV. GENERAL POLICIES FOR PARISH FINANCE COUNCILS (PFC)
The Parish Finance Council is a consultative body that assists the Pastor in the administration
of the parish’s finances and material goods. The establishment of a Parish Finance Council is
prescribed by canon law and bound by both universal law and local legislation.
Canon 532. In all judicial matters, the parish priest acts in the parish, in accordance with
the law. He is to ensure that the parish goods are administered in accordance with canons
1282 – 1288.
Canon 537. In each parish there is to be a finance council to help the parish priest in the
administration of the goods of the parish, without prejudice to Canon 532. It is ruled by the
universal law and by the norms laid down by the diocesan Bishop, and is composed of
members of the faithful selected by these norms.
Canon 1282. All clerics or lay persons who through a legitimate title take part in the
administration of ecclesiastical goods are bound to fulfill their duties in the name of the
Church and in accord with the norm of law.
Decree 118 of the Diocesan Synod in 2000 reaffirms the requirement to establish a finance
committee in every parish in the diocese. Decree 104, among others, defines the functions of
a parish finance committee which is, “to handle exclusively the sourcing of parish funds, their
disposition, and proper accounting.” In the renewed diocesan pastoral structure instituted after
the Diocesan Pastoral Assembly of 2011, the Parish Finance Committee referred to in the
synod is now called “Parish Finance Council”.
Further, the Parish Finance Council helps ensure that systems of accountability and
transparency are implemented in the administration of parish finances and properties,
including that of organizations and movements in the parish.
Synodal Decree 117. The rules of transparency should be the standard norm of the
diocese, parishes, schools, religious organizations and movements, and other lay Church-
related organizations in regard to Church assets and liabilities.
Relationship with the Parish Commission on Temporalities. Following the spirit of

Synodal Decree 116, the pastoral areas under the purview of the Diocesan Commission on
Temporalities are finance, human resource, cemeteries, buildings, sites, and cultural
heritages. However, for purposes of better parish administration, assistance to the Pastor in
parish finances and oversight functions on the financial aspects of various parish projects are
assigned as responsibilities of the Parish Finance Council. The Parish Commission on
Temporalities takes charge of assisting the Pastor in matters concerning human resource,
cemeteries, buildings, sites, and cultural heritages.
B. SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Accounting System. The Council shall ensure the proper use by the parish office of
chart of accounts applicable to the nature of transactions; and keep financial records
of special projects, which shall include the following tasks:
a. Collection and recording of receipts from fund raising activities intended for
special projects/activities.
b. Recording of payment of all expenditures for approved projects.
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2. Projects Oversight. The Council shall study and recommend to the Pastor or Parish
Administrator improvements to and/or approval of project plans submitted by the
Parish Commission on Temporalities, and the financial aspects of projects submitted
by other pastoral commissions and bodies in the parish.
3. Budget Preparation. The Council shall assist the Pastor in crafting the annual parish
budget and oversee the creation of budget for approved projects.
4. Fund Management. The Council shall implement sound fund management

regulations, including but not limited to the following:
a. Every parish shall have a Pastoral Fund that covers those accounts in the
parish that are not included in the General Fund. This includes special
collections and fund raising during the Parish Fiesta, Christmas and Holy
Week. This account may be used as trustee account of the parish commissions
that have their own funds like the Commission on Social Concerns,
Commission on Worship, religious organizations like Mother Butlers Guild, and
Barangay Pastoral Councils.
b. Every parish shall maintain a Pastoral Fund bank account, with account name
“Roman Catholic Bishop of Legazpi, Inc.” This account shall be jointly
managed by the Pastor, Parish Pastoral Council, and Parish Finance Council,
with the following signatories: Primary Signatories: Pastor and Parochial Vicar;
and Secondary Signatories: PPC Lay Co-Chair and Parish Finance Council
Lay Co-Chair.
c. For projects amounting to more than P200,000.00 the parish shall seek
approval from the Bishop through the Diocesan Commission on Temporalities.
5. Financial Reporting. The Council shall ensure that the required monthly report of
receipts and disbursements, including updates on special projects, is properly
rendered, submitted to the bishop, posted at the parish bulletin board, and be made
available during the regular meetings of the Parish Pastoral Council, as prescribed by
canon law.
Canon 1287 §1. Both clerical and lay administrators of any ecclesiastical goods
whatever which have not been legitimately exempted from the power of
governance of the diocesan bishop are bound by their office to present an annual
report to the local ordinary who is to present it for examination by the finance
council; any contrary custom is reprobated.
§2. According to norms to be determined by particular law, administrators are to

render an account to the faithful concerning the goods offered by the faithful to the
Church.
6. Fund Raising. The Council shall assist the Pastor in generating funds for pastoral
programs and special projects by coordinating and organizing fund raising activities
within the parish, including the regular fundraising drive during parish fiesta,
Christmas, and Easter.
C. COMPOSITION AND QUALIFICATION OF MEMBERS
22
1. Composition. The Council shall be composed of the following:
a. Pastor or Parish Administrator as Chair;

b. PPC Treasurer as Lay Co-Chair;
b. Parochial Vicars as members;
c. PPC Lay Co-Chair as member;
d. Chair of the Parish Commission on Temporalities as member; and
e. One or two (1 or 2) other members to be appointed by the Pastor or Parish
Administrator from among the parishioners.
2. Qualification. Officers and members of the Parish Finance Council shall have the
following qualifications:
a. Background or expertise in accounting, management or law;

b. Practicing Catholic of good moral standing; and
c. Able to attend Council meetings and perform tasks that may be assigned by
the Council.
D. FUNCTIONS OF OFFICERS
1. The Chair, who is also the Pastor or Parish Administrator, shall:

a. Decide on the agenda and presides over meetings; and
b. Make the final decision concerning decisions and courses of action
recommended to him by the Council.
2. The Lay Co-chair, who is also the PPC Treasurer, shall:

a. Work closely with the Pastor or Parish Administrator to prepare the agenda of
meetings;
b. Preside over meetings in the Pastor’s absence or whenever delegated;
c. Take charge of all cash transactions involving receipts and disbursements; and
d. Be co-signatory with the Pastor or Parish Administrator in bank transactions.
3. The Secretary shall:

a. Take the minutes of meetings and ensure that a file of all minutes is
maintained;
b. Handle all communications of the Council; and
c. Take charge of the preparation of financial reports.
4. The Auditor shall:

a. Audit accounting transactions; and
b. Record, verify, and validate reports of the Council and other parish
commissions and groups.
E. TENURE OF OFFICE
1. The Pastor or Parish Administrator shall hold office as Chair of the Parish Finance Council
as long as he keeps his tenure as such in the parish. The same shall also apply to
Parochial Vicars and other ex officio officers: they shall be members of the Council for the
duration of their term.
2. The rest of the members of the Parish Pastoral Council shall hold office for three years,
renewable for another term only.
4. When a member leaves the council, the Pastor or Parish Administrator shall appoint a
replacement.
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F. MEETINGS
1. Regular Council meeting shall be held quarterly. Special meetings may be called as the
need arises.
2. Majority plus one of the members of the Council shall constitute a quorum.
3. As a consultative and advisory body, the Council shall craft recommendations by
consensus, or if voting arise, a simple majority of the vote of all members present shall be
required.
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V. GENERAL POLICIES FOR BARANGAY PASTORAL COUNCILS (BPC)
“The BARANGAY/SITIO/PUROK PASTORAL COUNCIL shall be the grassroots unit for the
implementation of the Parish Pastoral Plan and the center for the promotion of Saradit na
Komunidad nin Pagtubod (SAKOP) in the barangay” (General Policies for the Diocesan
Pastoral Council, no. II.9).
Sitio Pastoral Councils (SPC) shall be organized and sustained in barangays with established
sitios. Whenever advantageous to the growth in the life of faith of the faithful, a Purok Pastoral
Council may also be organized.
“The BARANGAY/SITIO/PUROK PASTORAL COUNCIL shall be composed of a Chair,

Assistant Chair, Secretary, Treasurer, and the Chairs of the Pastoral Commissions in the
barangay. The Chair and other officers shall be appointed by the Pastor, either following the
result of an election or by direct appointment, whichever is more pastorally appropriate”
(General Policies for the Diocesan Pastoral Council, no. II.10).
C. FUNCTIONS OF OFFICERS
1. The BPC shall have the following set of officers:
a. Chair
b. Assistant Chair
c. Secretary
d. Treasurer
2. The BPC Chair shall have the following functions:
a. Lead and serve with humility, integrity, and care for every member of the
community;
b. Spearhead the building and sustaining of SAKOP cells in the barangay;
c. Call and preside over Council meetings and determine its agenda;
d. Coordinate programs, projects, and activities of the Council in close
collaboration with the Pastor or Parish Administrator and the Parish Pastoral
Council;
e. Represent the Pastor or Parish Administrator in meetings, events, and
functions in the barangay where parish representation is called for, and
thereafter renders a report about their representation to the Pastor or Parish
Administrator;
f. Be an ex-officio member of all Commissions and Committees in the BPC; and
g. Represent the BPC in the Parish Pastoral Council.
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3. The Assistant Chair, who may also chair another barangay commission, shall have
the following functions:
a. Preside over Council meetings in the absence of the BPC Chair;

b. Take over the functions of the BPC Chair in case of absence or incapacity,
upon instruction from the Pastor or Parish Administrator; and
c. Attend to other tasks that the Council may assign.
a. Write the minutes of Council meetings and keep all pertinent records;
b. Issue notices for meetings and dispatch needed communications;
c. Prepare the venue of meetings, including needed equipment and materials;
and
d. Attend to other secretarial tasks that the Council may require from time to time.
a. Act as the disbursing officer of the Council, ensuring transparency and

accountability of all financial transactions;
b. Keep a record of all financial concerns of the BPC; and
c. Submit and post timely regular financial reports.

b. Coordinate programs, projects, and activities of their commission in
consultation with the BPC Chair; and
c. Consult with and report to the BPC Chair regarding the standing work and tasks
assigned to the Commission.
D. FUNCTIONS OF THE BARANGAY PASTORAL COMMISSIONS
The competence and function of every Barangay Pastoral Commission shall be as follows:
1. Barangay Commission on Worship
a. Assist in the meaningful celebration of the Eucharist, and enliven the faith life of
the barangay community through liturgy and prayer;
b. Implement liturgical norms and policies in the barangay;
c. Ensure the formation and training of liturgical ministers in close collaboration with
the Parish Commission on Worship; and
d. Encourage devotional practices and provide oversight and support to barangay
organizations centered on popular devotions.
2. Barangay Commission on Christian Education
a. Assist in the work of evangelization in the barangay, through education and

formation;
b. Recruit and sustain catechists for the Barangay Catechetical Ministry and help
implement the Parish Catechetical Program in barangay schools; and
c. Promote the Parish Bible Apostolate and its programs in the barangay.
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3. Barangay Commission on Social Concerns
a. Engage the barangay community in practicing the faith as a Church of the Poor,
and addressing concerns and issues on justice, peace, and integrity of creation;
and
b. Develop and implement TADÂ and other social action programs and projects in
the barangay.
4. Barangay Commission on Temporalities
a. Manage the temporal goods and resources of the BPC, in particular the upkeep
and maintenance of the barangay chapel; and
b. Implement diocesan policies on Temporalities.
5. Barangay Commission on Family and Life
a. Promote the culture of life among the faithful in the barangay;

b. Assist the Parish Commission on Family and Life in preparing couples for
married life and sustaining the fidelity and growth in faith of families; and
c. Reach out to families in difficult situations and connect them with relevant parish
and diocesan offices and resources that could help them.
6. Barangay Commission on Youth
a. Take care of the organization and formation of young people in the barangay, in
close collaboration with the Parish Commission on Youth; and
b. Engage the young in the barangay to get more involved in the life of the Church
and in responding to pressing social issues and concerns.
E. TENURE OF OFFICE
1. The officers and members of the Barangay Pastoral Council shall hold office for three
years, renewable for another term only.
2. There shall be a process of selection at the end of the term.
4. The Commission or unit represented by the terminated Parish Pastoral Council
member shall recommend their replacement to the Pastor or Parish Administrator.
F. MEETINGS
1. Regular Council meeting shall be held at least quarterly.

2. Regular meetings of Commissions shall be held monthly.
quorum.
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PART II – PARTICULAR POLICIES
POLICIES ON THE DIOCESAN COUNCIL OF THE LAITY
The DIOCESAN COUNCIL OF THE LAITY (DCL) is an organization of all current and immediate
past Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) Lay Co-Chairs of the Diocese of Legazpi in service to the
Church’s mission to the world, primarily that of social transformation. This is made possible by
seeking the Kingdom of God, aided by evangelization and sharing the richness of Mother Church
while engaging in temporal affairs and directing it to God’s will.
A. GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
1. To involve lay organizations in the local Church through their charisms to meet the
needs of the Church and society.
2. To gather the lay faithful together in communion to reaffirm and enliven their
indispensable role in the life and mission of the Church, by actively promoting freedom,
justice, peace, sharing, and solidarity.
3. To assist in the formation of Parish Pastoral Councils (PPC).
4. To spearhead the celebration of the Clergy Day every year.
B. MEMBERSHIP
The DCL shall be composed of the current and immediate-past Lay Co-Chairs of PPCs. The
latter is not an automatic status. They have to be active as usual in their parish ministry even
without a specific position.
C. ORGANIZATION
1. The DCL members shall elect from among the current PPC Lay Co-chairs a President,
Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Auditor.
2. The Diocesan Pastoral Council presided by the Bishop shall appoint a member of the
clergy to act as Moderator and Spiritual Director of the DCL. The Moderator shall guide
the DCL in accomplishing their tasks and plans, and shall set the agenda for each DCL
meeting after due consultation with the DCL President.
3. The DCL Executive Board is composed of five (5) above-mentioned current officers,
the immediate-past officers, and six (6) current VCL Coordinators.
4. The Vicarial Council of the Laity (VCL) shall be formed in each vicariate composed of
the current and immediate-past Lay Co-Chairs of the PPCs.
a. They shall be tasked to recommend legislations and policies to the Vicarial

Pastoral Council.
b. They shall help in the implementation of DCL and diocesan programs and
projects at the vicarial level down to the parishes.
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c. They shall serve as feedback mechanism on the pastoral situation in the
parishes and vicariate from the perspective of the laity.
d. They shall elect from the current PPC Lay Co-Chairs a Coordinator, Secretary,
and Treasurer as VCL Officers.
5. The Vicar Forane shall act as the Moderator and Spiritual Director of the VCL.
D. FORMATION
1. Seminar on spiritual growth shall be conducted at least once a year.

2. Special formation shall be conducted according to the pastoral needs of lay leaders.
3. Schedule of formation and training will depend on the Spiritual Director.
4. Diocesan recollection shall be conducted twice a year during Advent and Lent.
5. Lay Leadership Training shall be scheduled by the Spiritual Director upon the
recommendation of the Executive Board.
E. RESPONSIBILITIES OF MEMBERS
1. Members must attend meetings regularly.

2. Before the meeting, members should discuss urgent issues for inclusion in the set
agenda.
3. Members’ viewpoints on important matters and other concerns can be presented
during the meeting, particularly on the “other matters” item.
4. Courtesy in manner of language during any deliberation must be observed at all times.
5. Members must always keep their Pastors informed about highlights of DCL meetings.
F. TERMINATION OF MEMBERSHIP
1. Voluntary – A letter of resignation should be filed, addressed to the DCL President
2. Involuntary
a. Any violation of the provisions on the qualification or status of membership.

b. Three (3) consecutive absences from meetings and formation schedules
without valid reasons.
G. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF OFFICERS
1. The President shall have the following duties and responsibilities:
a. Calls and presides over Council meetings;

b. Treats the approved agenda set by the Spiritual Director;
c. Directs the workings of the Council;
d. Maintains discipline and order in the Council;
e. Coordinates and updates the members of the activities, agenda, program, and
projects of the Council;
f. Protects the rights of members and promotes members’ spiritual growth; and
g. Takes responsibility over goal setting, planning, direction, project
implementation, and other activities of the Council.
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2. The Vice President shall have the following duties and responsibilities:
a. Performs the functions of the President in the latter’s absence or inability;

b. Oversees DCL formation and training programs; and
c. Exercises such other functions and performs such duties as the President may
determine.
3. The Secretary shall have the following duties and responsibilities:
a. Issues notices for the Council meetings and all needed communications;
b. Prepares the venue of the Council meeting;
c. Takes down the minutes of meetings;
d. Keeps and maintains a complete registry of all past and present Council
members;
e. Turns over to his/her successor or to the President all records upon the expiry
or termination of his/her term of office; and
f. Performs other duties assigned by the President.
4. The Treasurer shall have the following duties and responsibilities:
a. Keeps a complete record of transactions and of proof of his cash possession

at any given time and date;
b. Pays all financial obligations incurred by the DCL and approved by the body;
c. Renders report and certifies the correctness of amount of the cash possession
of the DCL; and
d. Turns over to his/her successor or to the President all the money, papers,
books, etc. upon the expiry or termination of his/her term of office.
5. The Auditor shall have the following duties and responsibilities:
a. Audits the funds and transactions of the DCL; and

b. Submits audited report to the President.
H. TENURE OF OFFICE
Officers shall hold office for three (3) years, renewable for another term only and on condition
that they are still the current PPC Lay Co-chair in their respective parishes.
I. MEETINGS
1. Regular Council meetings shall be held monthly. Special meetings may be called
anytime if necessary.
2. The venue of the regular meeting shall be decided by the DCL Executive Board.
3. The General Assembly of all PPC Officers shall be held quarterly, and a Grand
Reunion every December. The dates, venues, and other concerns shall be decided by
the DCL Executive Board.
4. A simple quorum, that is, 50% plus 1, is required in making a decision.
J. FINANCE
The DCL resources come from the following sources:
1. Voluntary contributions
2. Fundraising programs
3. Donations
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DIOCESAN COMMISSION ON WORSHIP
A. DIOCESAN POLICIES ON THE ADMINISTRATION OF SACRAMENTS

(While some of the universal norms are mentioned and others presumed, diocesan policies
are given particular attention.)
1. Sacrament of Baptism
Baptism is the gateway to all the sacraments (cf. can. 849). As such, only an
unbaptized person can be baptized.
a. Preparation for Infant Baptism. Parents, or at least one of them, or a lawfully

designated guardian is to register in the Parish Office the name of the infant to
be baptized, submitting a copy of the infant’s birth registry. Parents or
guardians and those who are to serve as sponsor/s are required to undergo a
pre-baptism seminar where they will be instructed on the significance of the
sacraments, the obligations attached to it and the liturgical rite. No seminar, no
baptism.
b. Preparation for Adult Baptism. An adult who intends to receive baptism is to

personally present himself to the Parish, manifest his intention to receive the
Catholic faith and submit a copy of his/her birth certificate. After an initial
interview by a priest, s/he will undergo adequate preparation through a series
of catechetical instructions given either by a priest or a parish-based
evangelization team. When ready and upon the recommendation of the
catechetical team, a schedule is set for the reception of the sacrament.
c. Godparents. A child to be baptized is to be assigned a sponsor who is a

baptized and confirmed Catholic. One sponsor, male or female, is sufficient,
but there may be two, one of each sex (can. 873). The practice of assigning
several sponsors is discouraged. A person of another faith or Christian
denomination cannot be admitted as a godparent but only as a witness
together with a Catholic godparent.
d. Rite. Baptism is administered according to the prescribed liturgical rite

approved by the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) and
the Diocese of Legazpi. Baptismal symbols, such as candles and vestments,
shall be under the management of the Parish Office.
e. Place of Baptism. Baptism is generally held in the parish where the child or
family belongs, otherwise, a written permit from the home parish is required.
f. Registration of Baptism. Every baptism is to be registered in the Parish

Canonical Books. To avoid future difficulties, exact information is to be
provided to the Parish Office. The following are the details in the baptismal
register: name of the baptized, name of parents and sponsors, date of birth
and of baptism, name of the minister. In case of an emergency baptism, where
the infant survives and whose health returns to normal, the baptized has to be
presented to the parish and the administration of an emergency baptism be
reported.
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2. Sacrament of Confirmation
Every baptized person who is not confirmed is capable of receiving Confirmation. In

fact, all baptized persons are bound to receive confirmation at the proper time.
a. Preparation. A person who wishes to receive confirmation is to present

himself/herself to the parish and submit a copy of his/her Baptismal Certificate.
Candidates for Confirmation are required to undergo a pre-sacramental
seminar usually administered by the Parish Catechetical Ministry. The pre-
confirmation seminar must never be sacrificed for any exigency. Part of the
preparation is the reception of the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
b. Age. Diocesan custom places the age for confirmation at the completion of the
twelfth (12th) year of age. Some parishes delay the reception to fifteen (15)
years old. The general guide is what the law refers to as “age of discretion.”
c. Godparents. The person to be confirmed has to have a sponsor (cf. can. 892).
A godparent must be a baptized and confirmed Catholic.
d. Special Cases. Adults preparing to receive the Sacrament of Matrimony

without having received yet Confirmation are to undergo adequate preparation
and receive confirmation prior to the wedding. In such cases, the parish priest
where the wedding will take place is authorized to serve as the minister of the
sacrament.
e. Registration. The names of the confirmed, the parents, the minister, the
sponsors, and the date and place of Confirmation are to be duly and accurately
recorded in the Parish Canonical Books.
3. Sacrament of Reconciliation
“There is no offence, however serious, that the Church cannot forgive. There is no
one, however wicked or guilty, who may not confidently hope for forgiveness, provided
his repentance is honest” (CCC 982).
a. Reception. Regular and frequent reception of the sacrament is highly

encouraged. The parish is to provide a regular fixed confession schedule to
facilitate the faithful’s reception of the sacrament. Parishes shall likewise
schedule communal celebrations of the Penitential Service, particularly during
the seasons of Advent and Lent. A penitent is free to confess his/her sins to
any confessor of his/her choice (can. 991).
b. Particular Cases. Those who are to receive First Holy Communion are
prepared by the catechists for their first confession. Candidates for
Confirmation and couples preparing for marriage are asked to receive the
sacrament of Reconciliation.
c. Place. Though the proper place for hearing Confession is the church or the
oratory, for pastoral reasons, confessions may also be heard in other places,
such as schools or hospitals or even private homes, provided the dignity and
confidentiality of the sacrament is not compromised.
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4. Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist
The most venerable sacrament is the Blessed Eucharist, in which Christ himself is
contained, offered, and received. The other sacraments and all the apostolic works of
Christ are bound up with and directed to the Blessed Eucharist (cf. can. 897).
a. Celebration. In the Eucharistic Celebration, all the faithful present, whether

priests/deacons or lay persons, are to participate fully and actively in their own
way according to their particular liturgical roles. Decent attire and proper
behavior is to be observed whenever one enters the hallowed confines of the
Church. Anything that creates or causes disruption of the liturgy is to be
avoided.
b. Reception of First Communion. Parish catechists are tasked to prepare

children who have reached nine (9) years of age or are in the third (3rd)
elementary grade level for the reception of Holy Communion. It is however the
primary duty of parents and of those who take their place to ensure that their
children who have reached the age of reason be presented to the parish for
proper instructions. Prior to first Holy Communion, the candidates are to
receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
c. Place of Celebration. Held in highest honor and utmost respect, the regular
celebration of the Holy Eucharist is done in the Church, Barangay/Sitio
Chapels, and the Catholic Cemetery. For pastoral reasons, the Eucharist may
also be celebrated in funeral parlors and in houses where a wake is being held.
Upon request, it may also be celebrated in a house where a physically
incapacitated person, due to health or old age, resides. The practice of
celebrating the Eucharist in public places during first Friday or other civil
occasions is to be done with utmost caution. Priests from outside the parish
need to acquire expressed permission from the parish priest.
d. Mass Intention Offering. The Parish Office is the proper place where Mass
intentions are submitted and the corresponding offerings are remitted. Mass
intentions are recorded in the Parish Mass Book and the corresponding official
receipt issued.
e. Mass Collection. The monetary offering given by the faithful during Holy Mass
is an act of solidarity to help the parish—its sustenance and maintenance, its
mission and pastoral programs. In solidarity with the whole diocese and the
universal Church, additional special collections are requested on particular
days commonly known as the Second Collection which are intended for
specific purposes, such as the missions or the seminaries. Funds generated
from such collections are to be promptly remitted by the parish office to the
Diocesan Chancery.
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5. Funeral and Wake Masses
Canon 1176 provides that Christ’s faithful who have died are to be given a Church
funeral according to the norms of law and celebrated according to the norms of the
liturgical books. The same canon earnestly recommends that the pious custom of
burial be retained, but it does not forbid cremation unless this is chosen for reasons
which are contrary to Christian teaching. Particular to the Diocese of Legazpi are the
following norms:
a. Ordinarily, only one (1) Wake Mass is allowed, preferably on the first or the last
day. Prayer services are encouraged.
b. No Wake or Funeral Mass is allowed during Sundays and other Holy Days of
Obligation.
c. If the wake is unusually long, three (3) Wake Masses at most may be
celebrated during the whole wake.
d. Guest priests are to seek permission, at least verbally, from the pastor where
Wake Mass is celebrated.
e. The approved diocesan Funeral Mass Rite is to be used, respecting strictly the
use of funeral symbols including flowers.
f. Members of the Ministry of Lectors and Commentators shall serve during the
Funeral Mass.
g. Diocesan policies on liturgical music must be observed.
h. Necrological services are not allowed inside the church. Words of thanksgiving
may be allowed from a member of the family of the deceased.
6. Sacrament of Marriage
(Universal canonical norms are mostly presumed, particularly those concerning
matrimonial consent, the integrity of the canonical form and the impediments.)
a. Solemnizing Officer. Marriages are to be contracted in the presence of the

local ordinary (Bishop of Legazpi) or the parish priest, or the priest or deacon
delegated by either of them (cf. can. 1108). Parochial Vicars assigned in a
parish enjoy a general delegation to assist at marriages within the parish
territory. This delegation must be given by the parish priest in writing. An invited
guest priest or deacon is required to seek for a specific delegation from the
parish priest for marriage to be validly celebrated. This delegation can be given
verbally.
b. Place of Celebration. Marriages are to be celebrated in churches or oratories,

never in private homes, hotels, resorts, or other similar places, except in the
case of articulo mortis (Diocesan circular # 20, series of 2013). Marriages are
to be celebrated in the parish where either of the contracting parties
permanently reside (can. 1115). With the permission of the bishop or the parish
priest, marriage may be celebrated in another parish church (can. 1118).
c. Age. A man cannot validly enter marriage before completion of his sixteenth
(16th) year of age, nor a woman before the completion of her fourteenth (14th)
year, though the law allows the Episcopal Conference to establish a higher
year for lawful celebration (cf. can. 1083, 2). The CBCP has established the
age for lawful celebration at twenty (20) years for the bridegroom and eighteen
(18) years for the bride. The Family Code of the Philippines requires the age
of eighteen (18) in both parties. The same Code further stipulates that between
the ages of eighteen (18) and twenty (20) parental consent is required and,
between the ages of twenty-one (21) and twenty-five (25) parental advice is
necessary.
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d. Witnesses. Marriages are valid which are contracted in the presence of two
witnesses (cf. can. 1108). A witness has to have proper use of reason and is
capable of giving testimony to whatever he/she will witness. (The Family Code
of the Philippines requires in the witness the majority of age.) Having more than
a pair of witnesses is allowed but the number should not exceed the maximum
of five (5) pairs.
e. Publication of Banns. All scheduled marriages are to be published for three

consecutive weeks in the parish of origin or any other parish where either of
the couple has residence or previous residence after completing fourteen (14)
years of age. The form is to be provided and prepared by the Parish Office and
the results of the publication be retrieved before the actual marriage.
f. Pre-Cana Seminar. Would-be couples are required to attend a pre-nuptial

evangelization seminar which, among other topics, instruct the couples on the
significance of Christian marriage, the mutual obligations of spouses and the
duties of Christian parents (cf. can. 1063). During the seminar, the couples are
also informed about the diocesan policies regarding the celebration of
weddings. They are further asked to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation
prior to the wedding ceremony.
g. Required Documents. At the latest, one (1) month prior to the wedding, the
couple must present themselves to the parish to fill-up the Interrogation Form
and be interviewed by a priest/deacon. In special cases due to difficulties of
distance, initial interrogation of the couple is allowed, but physical presentation
prior to the actual wedding is encouraged. The couple will be required to submit
the following documents prior to the actual wedding:
i. Baptismal and Confirmation Certificates for marriage purpose;

ii. Marriage License issued by a Civil Registrar;
iii. A copy of the Civil Marriage Contract for civilly married couples;
iv. An authenticated Death Certificate of the deceased spouse for
widows/ers;
v. Certificate of Freedom to Marry for foreign nationals issued by his/her
proper embassy;
vi. Pre-Cana Seminar certificate of attendance;
vii. Marriage Banns result from the parish of origin and/or residence; and
viii. Decree of Dispensation issued by the Bishop for particular cases.
h. Rite. Only the prescribed Marriage Rite issued by the CBCP and approved in
the Diocese of Legazpi is to be used. A couple who wishes to reproduce the
wedding rite have to seek prior approval from the parish priest.
i. Date of Marriage and Service Fee. Every parish reserves a particular time
and day during the week for weddings without requiring any fixed service fees.
A couple may however request for a preferred time and day which entails a
corresponding service fee. In such case, a couple is asked to settle half of the
service fee upon registration, which fee is non-refundable. No weddings are
allowed during Sundays and on days prohibited in the liturgy. No parish shall
charge any fee for parishioners wishing to be wed in another place.
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j. During the Wedding.
i. The couple and entourage are expected to arrive on time, at least

fifteen minutes before the schedule.
ii. Proper decorum and behavior is expected throughout the ceremony.
iii. The ring bearer and flower girls shall be at least seven (7) years old.
iv. Only official/commissioned commentators are allowed to serve at
Mass.
v. Photographers are to respect the designated places assigned to them.
Pictorials are to last fifteen (15) minutes only after the Holy Mass.
vi. Frivolities, such as unity candles and the like, are discouraged to avoid
unnecessary prolongation of the ceremony.
vii. Church decorations and songs for the Holy Mass must be coordinated
with the parish.
viii. The couple takes care of the stipend of the priest in case they invite
someone from outside the parish.
ix. Wedding coordinators shall closely coordinate with the parish and the
solemnizing priest. They are to strictly follow diocesan marriage liturgy
policies.
7. Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick
By Anointing of the Sick, the Church commends to the suffering and glorified Lord the
faithful who are dangerously ill so that He may support and save them (can. 998).
a. Celebration. Anointing of the Sick is administered to any member of the faithful

who, having reached the use of reason, begins to be in danger of death by
reason of illness or old age. The sacrament can be repeated if the sick person,
having recovered, becomes seriously sick again or if, in the same illness, the
danger becomes more serious (can. 1004).
b. Time and Minister. Every priest, but only a priest, can validly administer the
sacrament (can. 1003) and it can be administered at any time. In the event of
need for Anointing, the parish rectory is to be informed immediately, directly or
through the Barangay/Sitio Pastoral Council for far-flung communities. No
priest is to refuse the administration of Anointing of the Sick.
c. World Day of the Sick. All parishes throughout the Diocese dedicate the
month of February for the special care of the elderly and sick parishioners.
During this month-long celebration, the sick and elderly are provided with the
Sacrament of Anointing, usually administered within the Holy Mass and after
the reception of the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The feast day of Our Lady of
Lourdes (February 11) serves as the highlight of the month-long celebration.
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B. POLICIES ON THE SUB-COMMISSIONS ON LITURGICAL MINISTRIES
AND SACRED MUSIC
1. Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion (EMHC)
“The person designated to be an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion (EMHC)

is necessarily to be instructed and should distinguish himself by his Christian life, faith
and morals. Let him strive to be worthy of this great office; let him cultivate a devotion
to the Holy Eucharist and show himself as an example to the other faithful by his piety
and reverence for this Holy Sacrament of the Altar. Let no one be chosen whose
selection may cause scandal among the faithful” (Immensæ Caritatis, I VI).
a. Functions
i. The main function of the EMHC is to assist the priest in the distribution
of Holy Communion at Holy Mass, particularly during Sundays and
Solemnities. However, during concelebrated Masses, EMHC are to
desist in distributing communion in favor of concelebrating priests.
ii. He can likewise be deputed by the Parish Priest, according to approved

liturgical norms, to bring Holy Communion to the sick and elderly
parishioners in their respective residences, in hospitals, and other
institutions for the elderly.
iii. In the absence of a priest, and EMHC can be authorized by his Parish
Priest to preside over the celebration of the Liturgy of the Word followed
by the distribution of Holy Communion during Sundays and Holy Days
of Obligation, always in accordance with approved norms.
iv. In exceptional cases and for pastoral reasons, the Parish Priest may
request an EMHC to officiate in Exequial (Funeral) Services.
v. Aside from his liturgical functions, other pastoral tasks may also be
assigned to the EMHC as deemed prudent by the Parish Priest in
consultation with the Parish Pastoral Council.
b. Recruitment and Qualifications
An EMHC should have the following qualifications prior to his commissioning:
i. He should be a person of good standing in the parish, distinguished by

this Christian life, faith, and morals. He is a person who demonstrates
love and devotion to the Holy Eucharist, shown in his piety and
reverence for the Sacrament.
ii. He must have attained a certain degree of human maturity so as to be

able to fulfill responsibilities with regularity and consistency, such as
fulfilling assigned liturgical tasks and participating in the regular
meetings and the on-going formation program in the parish and vicarial
levels.
iii. He must be physically, emotionally, and mentally fit to be able to fulfill

his tasks. As such, he must be at least twenty-five (25) years old, but
not over sixty-five (65) years old. The Parish Priest however may adjust
37
the age requirement in exceptional cases, but always considering the
candidate’s physical, emotional, and mental suitability.
iv. Inasmuch as an EMHC is authorized to exercise his liturgical functions

only in the parish where he is commissioned, he must have domicile in
the parish where he is to serve.
c. Procedure for Commissioning
The number of EMHC in any parish is determined by the pastoral needs of the
place. When pastoral need arises, the Parish Priest announces to the Parish
Pastoral Council and other parish religious groups the intention of recruiting
new EMHC members. After recommendations have been gathered, the Parish
Priest forms a Review Committee from among existing EMHC members to
screen the candidates according to the required qualifications.
The Review Committee submits to the Parish Priest the list of screened
candidates for approval. The Parish Priest then relays the invitation to each
candidate while obtaining from him consent and willingness to serve as an
EMHC. An orientation meeting on the nature and duties of the EMHC is
conducted, which includes the schedule of their formation program.
d. Formation Program
The basic formation program of the EMHC is characterized both by study and
prayer. It is informative as well as formative. It aims not only to enhance
understanding of basic Christian doctrines particularly on the Holy Eucharist,
but it is likewise an avenue to grow in Christian faith.
The formation program consists of seven (7) courses on basic Christian

doctrine and practical guidelines. Though preferably done on a vicarial level,
any parish can conduct the formation program upon determination of the
Parish Priest. No person is to be commissioned without undergoing this basic
program. The topics of the seven courses are as follows:
i. Salvation History. The historical dealing of God with his people as

presented in the Old Testament; Creation, Fall, Promise, Election,
Covenant, Expectation, and Mission up to the coming of Jesus in the
New Testament.
ii. Christology. Christ as the fullness of God’s revelation and the

fulfillment of God’s salvific plan and as Lord and Savior.
iii. Ecclesiology. The Church as the New People of God in the New
Covenant through, with, and in Christ; the Holy Spirit in the life of the
Church; the Mystical Body of Christ extending his salvific mission in
history until the end of time; the family as the domestic Church; and
Basic Ecclesial Community (BEC) as a new way of being Church.
iv. Sacramentology. Jesus as the primordial sacrament of God; the

Church as the fundamental sacrament of Christ; the seven (7) sacred
symbols that lead one to an encounter with the Trinitarian God and the
experience of his grace; celebration of the Word of God.
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v. Eucharist. The Eucharistic Celebration as the source and summit, the
center of our Christian life; as privileged moment of the saving
encounter between God and man; the structure of the Eucharistic
Celebration; the social dimension of the Eucharist treated according to
the Eucharist as celebration, Eucharist as contemplation, and the
Eucharist as mission.
vi. Bible. Basic knowledge about the books of the Bible, especially the
Gospels and the love for the Word of God.
vii. Mariology. Basic appreciation of Mary’s role in salvation history and

her value in a Christian’s life; popular Marian devotions, especially the
devotion to Our Lady of Salvation.
viii. Sunday Liturgy in the Absence of a Priest. Bible Service with Holy
Communion, norms and praxis.
ix. Diocesan Pastoral Plan. The statutes of the Commission on Worship,

particularly the policies on the life and ministry of the EMHC.
x. Practicum. Functions, practical guides, and duties when assisting in

Church liturgical services.
On-Going Formation Program. The basic formation program received by an

EMHC is continuously enhanced by his regular active participation in the
celebration of the Holy Eucharist and other parish activities, both liturgical and
pastoral. On-going programs are also provided as a way of promoting both his
ministerial and personal life as Christian. Regular meetings, usually on a
monthly basis, are aimed not only to update members of new liturgical policies,
but also to foster fraternity. Annual holy retreats and seasonal recollections,
particularly during Advent and Lent, are scheduled to promote the spiritual life
of the EMHC. Other activities, decided upon and designed by the members of
the EMHC themselves, are also encouraged as part of their on-going
formation.
e. Tenure and Termination
A person formally starts his ministry as an EMHC after having been publicly
commissioned, which is a formal rite done within the celebration of the Holy
Mass in which a person is presented to the Lord and the community to render
this particular ministry. The ceremony consists of four (4) brief parts:
Presentation, Instruction, Acceptance, and Blessing.
The commissioning is given for a period of one (1) year and can be renewed
annually. Before the actual expiration of tenure, an EMHC of good standing
who is still able and willing manifests his intention and desire to the Parish
Priest to commit his services for another year as an EMHC. An EMHC who
fails to renew his commissioning is to desist from performing his former duties
until he is formally reinstated into the ministry.
Aside from the expiration of tenure, the services of an EMHC may be

terminated after a fair and confidential hearing presided by the Parish Priest of
cases involving immorality, public scandal, unorthodox belief and practice,
unexcused absences from meetings and gatherings, failure to perform tasks
39
and responsibilities, gross violation of the EMHC policies. An EMHC who runs
for an elected government post is deemed automatically suspended from the
ministry during the campaign and election periods.
2. Ministry of Lectors and Commentators (MLC)
The Ministry of Lectors and Commentators (MLC) are committed persons chosen to
perform a special service in liturgical celebrations. The essence of this particular
ministry is the proclamation of the Word of God. This ministry is a charism shared with
the community. The Scriptures are central to the ministry. To this end, they must be
intimately familiar with the living Word animating their lives.
a. Membership and Qualifications
MLC members should have the following qualifications prior to their

commissioning:
i. A parishioner of good moral character and a practicing Catholic.
ii. S/he must be physically, emotionally, and mentally fit to be able to fulfill
his tasks. As such, s/he must be at least sixteen (16) years old, but not
over sixty-five (65) years old. The Parish Priest however may adjust the
age requirement in exceptional cases, but always considering the
N.B. Children cannot be commissioned for this ministry. They may be

requested to proclaim the Word of God for special liturgical
celebrations, but not on a permanent basis.
iii. Must possess the skill to read, write and speak clearly in Bikol, Filipino
and English.
iv. Must have an above average public and oral communication skills.
v. Must be committed to attend regular meetings and the on-going

formation programs in the parish as well as in the vicarial level; and
vi. Willing to accept other related responsibilities.
b. Duties and Responsibilities
Commentators should:
i. Be in the church at least 15 minutes before the Mass to provide ample

time for prayer, self-composure, and other preparations.
ii. Check the following: commentator’s guide, monitions, readings for the
day, prayer of the faithful, Mass intentions, announcements, and songs.
iii. Be prepared to lead the congregation in singing in the absence of the
choir and do the readings in the absence of lectors.
iv. Know by heart all parts of the Mass and always be alert while on duty.
S/he must not sing audibly with the choir.
v. Avoid instructions to stand, kneel, or sit (depending on the kind of
congregation).
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vi. Provide a replacement if not available, at least a week before the
scheduled assignment, and then inform the Committee on Mass
Assignment about the substitution.
Lectors should:
i. Do spiritual preparations a week before the assigned task. Rehearse

and dispose oneself properly.
ii. Know the proper gestures which are prescribed for the ministry.
iii. Be in the church at least 15 minutes before the Mass to provide ample
iv. Provide a replacement if not available, at least a week before the
c. Dos and Don’ts
Every MLC member should:
i. Have personal devotion to the Holy Eucharist.

ii. Develop the habit of personal study and meditation on the daily
readings of Sacred Scripture.
iii. Always maintain reverential attitude and disposition before and during
the Mass.
iv. Always be neat and tidy-looking when serving at Mass.
v. Not perform one’s function unless s/he is in uniform.
vi. Be expected to always conduct oneself in an exemplary way.
vii. Never do or say anything that will cause scandal among the faithful.
d. Formation Program
The basic formation program of the MLC is characterized both by study and

Parish Priest. No person is to be commissioned without undergoing this basic
program. The topics of the seven courses are as follows:

New Testament.

41


viii. Diocesan Pastoral Plan. The statutes of the Commission on Worship,

particularly the policies on the life and ministry of the MLC.
ix. Practicum. Functions, practical guides, and duties when assisting in

On-Going Formation Program. The basic formation program received by an

MLC member is continuously enhanced by his regular active participation in
the celebration of the Holy Eucharist and other parish activities, both liturgical
and pastoral. On-going programs are also provided as a way of promoting both
his ministerial and personal life as Christian. Regular meetings, usually on a
monthly basis, are aimed not only to update members of new liturgical policies,
but also to foster fraternity. Annual holy retreats and seasonal recollections,
particularly during Advent and Lent, are scheduled to promote the spiritual life
of the MLC members. Other activities, decided upon and designed by the
members of the MLC themselves, are also encouraged as part of their on-
going formation.
e. Tenure and Termination
A person formally starts his ministry as an MLC member after having been
publicly commissioned, which is a formal rite done within the celebration of the
Holy Mass in which a person is presented to the Lord and the community to
render this particular ministry. The ceremony consists of four (4) brief parts:
annually. Before the actual expiration of tenure, an MLC member of good
standing who is still able and willing manifests his intention and desire to the
Parish Priest to commit his services for another year as an MLC member. An
MLC member who fails to renew his commissioning is to desist from performing
his former duties until he is formally reinstated into the ministry.
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Aside from the expiration of tenure, the services of an MLC member may be
and responsibilities, gross violation of the MLC policies. An MLC member who
runs for an elected government post is deemed automatically suspended from
the ministry during the campaign and election periods.
3. Ministry of Greeters, Collectors, and Communion Guides (MGCCG)
The Ministry of Greeters, Collectors, and Communion Guides (MGCCG) are

committed persons in the community, recruited to serve the congregation immediately,
before, and during liturgical celebrations. The essence of this particular ministry is to
build a welcoming atmosphere and proper order during the Eucharistic celebration.
An MGCCG member should have the following qualifications prior to their

commissioning:
i. A parishioner of good moral character and a practicing Catholic;
ii. S/he must be physically, emotionally, and mentally fit to be able to fulfill
his tasks. As such, s/he must be at least sixteen (16) years old, but not
over sixty-five (65) years old. The Parish Priest however may adjust the
age requirement in exceptional cases, but always considering the
iii. Must be committed to attend regular meetings and the on-going

formation programs of the ministry in the parish as well as in the Vicarial
level;
iv. Willing to accept other related responsibilities; and
v. Bona fide member of the parish.
b. Formation Program
A candidate for commissioning must complete the whole basic formation

program. The formation program, characterized and nurtured both by prayer
and study, must be done preferably on a vicariate level at least seven (7)
consecutive sessions and shall necessarily cover the following topics:

New Testament.

43




particularly the policies on the life and ministry of the MGCCG.

c. Commissioning
i. The rite of commissioning and renewal of an MGCCG is performed by

the parish priest on the feast of St. Martha (July 29).
ii. The MGCCG are formally presented to the Christian community whom
they will serve using a common rite.
iii. The Commission is given for a period of one (1) year, limited to the
parish where one has been commissioned. Those MGCCG who are
no longer in their best physical condition by reasons of age, health,
disposition, etc., despite their avowed devotion to serve.
d. Duties and Responsibilities
i. Be in the church at least 15 minutes before the Mass starts to welcome

and assist the congregation to their seats.
ii. Tidy-up the offertory table and orient the offerors.
iii. Prepare collection bags.
iv. Assist in maintaining reverence and order while mass is in progress.
v. Oversee the orderliness during collection, offertory, and communion
time.
vi. Provide a replacement if not available at least a week before the
scheduled assignment and inform the Committee on Mass Assignment.
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e. Dos and Don’ts
Every MGCCG member should:
i. Have a devotion to the Holy Eucharist. One should spend at least an

hour of prayer in the Eucharistic Adoration chapel every week.
ii. Develop the habit of personal study of Sacred Scripture.
iii. Always maintain reverential attitude and disposition before and during
the Mass.
iv. Always be neat and tidy-looking when serving at Mass.
v. Not perform one’s function unless s/he is in uniform.
vi. Be expected to always conduct oneself in an exemplary way.
vii. Never do or say anything that will cause scandal among the faithful.
f. Administrative Policies
i. Only commissioned members of MGCCG of the parish shall serve in

all Masses.
ii. An MGCCG may not transfer to another parish without the

endorsement/referral or clearance of the parish priest and the
evaluation/screening committee where one had previously been a
member.
g. Tenure and Termination
A person formally starts his ministry as an MGCCG member after having been
publicly commissioned, which is a formal rite done within the celebration of the
Holy Mass in which a person is presented to the Lord and the community to
render this particular ministry. The ceremony consists of four (4) brief parts:
annually. Before the actual expiration of tenure, an MGCCG member of good
standing who is still able and willing manifests his intention and desire to the
Parish Priest to commit his services for another year as an MGCCG member.
An MGCCG member who fails to renew his commissioning is to desist from
performing his former duties until he is formally reinstated into the ministry.
Aside from the expiration of tenure, the services of an MGCCG member may
be terminated after a fair and confidential hearing presided by the Parish Priest
of cases involving immorality, public scandal, unorthodox belief and practice,
and responsibilities, gross violation of the MGCCG policies. An MGCCG
member who runs for an elected government post is deemed automatically
suspended from the ministry during the campaign and election periods.
45
4. Ministry of Altar Servers (MAS)
The Ministry of Altar Servers (MAS) is a ministry of children and teenagers dedicated
to serve at liturgical services in the parish.
MAS members must:
i. Have received their First Communion;

ii. Obtain consent from parents or guardian;
iii. Be willing to undergo basic formation;
iv. Undergo training and formation before investiture with the sacred
cassock and surplice;
v. Provide their own liturgical attire as prescribed by the Diocesan
Commission on Worship;
vi. Be readily available to serve in Masses and other liturgical celebrations;
vii. Manifest proper behavior at all times.
viii. Have enough maturity to understand assigned responsibilities and
carry them out well with appropriate reverence; and
ix. Be a bona fide member of the parish.
N.B. In 1994, the Holy See permitted the bishops the option of allowing girls to
serve as altar servers but stated that this practice is “allowed but not required”
and therefore, not mandatory. The Holy See recommended that it will always
be appropriate to follow the noble tradition of having boys serve at the altar. As
is well known, this has also led to reassuring development of priestly vocations.
b. Dos and Don’ts
Every MAS member should:
i. Have personal devotion to the Holy Eucharist. One is encouraged to

spend at least an hour of prayer in the Eucharistic Adoration Chapel
every week.
ii. Develop the habit of personal study and meditation on the daily
readings of Sacred Scripture.
iii. Be in the church at least 15 minutes before the Mass to provide ample
iv. Always maintain reverential attitude and disposition before and during
the Mass.
v. Always be neat and tidy-looking when serving at Mass.
vi. Not perform one’s function unless s/he is in uniform.
vii. Be expected to always conduct oneself in an exemplary way.
viii. Never do or say anything that will cause scandal among the faithful.
ix. Provide a replacement if not available, at least a week before the
c. Formation Program
The basic formation program of the MAS is characterized both by study and
46
Parish Priest. No person is to be invested with the sacred cassock and surplice
without undergoing this basic program. The topics of the seven courses are as
follows:
i. Basic Prayers. Essential prayers of the Catholic tradition.



Celebration; responses at Mass; liturgical items.


particularly the policies on the life and ministry of the MAS.

d. Tenure and Termination
The rite of investiture and renewal of MAS is performed by the parish priest on
the feast day of St. Dominic Savio (May 6). The ceremony consists of four (4)
brief parts: Presentation, Instruction, Acceptance, and Blessing. The
commissioning is given for a period of one (1) year and can be renewed
annually. Serving at Mass is limited to the parish where one has been invested.
Before the actual expiration of tenure, an MAS member of good standing who
is still able and willing manifests his intention and desire to the Parish Priest to
commit his services for another year as an MAS member. An MAS member
47
who fails to renew his commissioning is to desist from performing his former
duties until he is formally reinstated into the ministry.
Aside from the expiration of tenure, the services of an MAS member may be
and responsibilities, gross violation of the MAS policies.
5. Sub-Commission on Sacred Music
Music in the liturgy is called sacred music and is an integral part of liturgical
celebrations. Sacred music invites people to be participative and active, leading to
meaningful worship. Thus, music in all its aspects must lead the faithful to glorify God
and aid to their own sanctification.
a. General Norms
i. Under the Commission on Worship are diocesan, vicarial, and parish

music ministries whose role is to guide, inform, and form members to
sing in liturgical celebrations. These ministries also serve as source of
copies of hymns and oversee teaching liturgical songs to the faithful.
ii. The Diocesan Music Ministry has the role of updating, training, and
informing the Parish Music Ministries of new songs and suggest what
songs to sing during liturgical celebrations.
iii. Every parish should have at least one choir group to assist at liturgical
celebrations.
iv. Any concern in the parishes regarding sacred music shall first be
consulted with the vicarial music ministry, who then opens the same
concerns to the diocesan music ministry director when necessary.
v. Hymns must always bear the spirit of the liturgical season and reflect
the liturgical action they accompany.
vi. During the seasons of Advent and Lent, musical instruments may be
played only to give necessary support to the singing.
vii. Regarding the choice of hymns for the liturgy, the General Instruction
for the Roman Missal (GIRM) states: “Gregorian chant holds pride of
place because it is proper to the Roman Liturgy. Other types of sacred
music, in particular polyphony, are in no way excluded, provided that
they correspond to the spirit of the liturgical action and that they foster
the participation of all the faithful.”
viii. Latin is the universal language of the Church, therefore choirs are
encouraged to sing Latin songs since they are appropriate for the
Roman liturgy.
ix. Secular songs should not be sung in liturgical celebrations. Choirs must
sing only liturgical hymns during liturgical celebrations.
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x. Artistic expression of songs is allowed, but choirs must see to it that the
congregation can join in the singing for their active participation.
xi. Musical instruments are very helpful in the liturgy. However, they
should simply accompany the choir and not be louder than them.
Percussions may be used in moderation whenever appropriate.
xii. To ensure active participation during liturgical celebrations, it is a must

that the choirs should have time to practice the congregation. The use
of LCD projectors is also helpful in showing lyrics to the congregation.
xiii. During special celebrations like parish fiestas, the parish choir must be
given priority over other choirs.
xiv. During weddings and funerals, the church choir must be given priority.
Should concerned parties wish to have their own choir, they must
inform the parish office for proper turnover of instruments and policies.
xv. The Sub-commission on Sacred Music regularly meets once every

quarter.
b. Compositions and Translations
i. Local composers are encouraged to write songs for the Bikol liturgy.
Before their compositions are sung in the parish, they are to be
evaluated by the Sub-Commission and then endorsed to the Bishop for
approval.
ii. New hymns must be in conformity with the principles and norms of the
liturgy. In this way, their qualities will be genuine to sacred music.
iii. Translating hymns to the vernacular are allowed for the purpose of easy
understanding of their message. In preparing the text, however,
composers/translators must take into consideration the usefulness and
the character of the song being translated. Their melody and
syllabication of the translated song should not deviate from the original.
The final output must then be evaluated by a focus discussion group
and be approved by the competent authority either for release or for
improvement.
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DIOCESAN COMMISSION ON CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
The DIOCESAN COMMISSION ON CHRISTIAN EDUCATION (DCCE) deals with the ministry of
evangelization, that process in the Christian religion which seeks to spread the Gospel and the
knowledge of the Gospel throughout the world, as briefly defined in the Gospel at the beginning
of Jesus Christ’s public ministry. Further, the commission is tasked to oversee the practice of
relaying information about the Catholic Christian beliefs to others who do not hold this belief. The
term evangelization is often used in reference to Christianity, where the Scriptures often describe
it as spreading the Gospel.
The mission of the DCEC is to proclaim the Word of God to the families, poor, and youth in the
pursuit of renewed integral evangelization towards integration of faith and life.
A. LEGAZPI CATECHETICAL MINISTRY (LCM)
Catechesis should be holistic, biblically based, doctrinal and practical, participatory, and shall
include the teachings of the Church (Decree No. 22, Acts and Decrees of the First Diocesan
Synod of Legazpi). Catechesis has always been in the heart of the diocesan apostolate in
Legazpi since its foundation as an independent diocese in 1951.
1. Roles and Functions of the Catechetical Ministry Staff
a. The LCM Director shall have the following functions:
i. To attend to the holistic formation of the LCM staff;

ii. To be the overall supervisor of the diocesan catechetical program and
to monitor catechetical activities of the vicariates;
iii. To render a progress report to the bishop, the Commission on Christian
Education, and diocesan clergy during general assemblies;
iv. To direct the planning and implementation and evaluation of the
catechetical program;
v. To represent the LCM or designate his representative on official
invitations of catechetical nature;
vi. To communicate on behalf of the LCM with all agencies regarding
catechetical business;
vii. To recommend to the bishop, person/s to work for LCM in case
replacement or additional staff is needed;
viii. To call for a general staff meeting to evaluate the program after the
closing of the catechetical year and plan for the following year; and
ix. To source out funds for the ministry.
b. The LCM Assistant Director shall have the following functions:
i. To assist the Director in on-going formation of the staff;

ii. To assist the Director in the yearly planning, implementation, and
evaluation of the programs;
iii. To submit to the Bishop the diocesan catechetical statistics and year-
end reports upon approval of the Director;
iv. To act as secretary/treasurer of the LCM; and
v. To take over the functions of the Director in the latter’s absence.
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c. The Vicariate Priest Director shall function in the place of the LCM Director
in the vicariates.
d. The Vicariate Coordinator shall have the following functions:
i. To promote and witness harmonious working relationships within the

vicariate and in the parishes;
ii. To take care of the holistic ongoing formation of the parish catechists
in coordination with the parish priests;
iii. To help the parish priests in selecting applicants and implementing
disciplinary measures for the parish catechetical ministry;
iv. To help catechists prepare and update catechetical skills and materials,
such as syllabus, lesson plans, visual aids, and methodology;
v. To visit classrooms and follow-up religious instruction in the schools;
vi. To plan, coordinate, monitor and evaluate catechetical activities within
the vicariate;
vii. To report regularly at the LCM office on assigned days, attend LCM
meetings, and prepare monthly progress report; and
viii. To submit vicariate annual statistical and year-end reports.
e. Parish Priests shall have the following functions:
All priests should be familiar and acquainted with the operational principles and
content of what an “integral renewed catechesis” is all about as found in the
National Catechetical Directory of the Philippines, Catechism for Filipino
Catholics, and PCP II. Their tasks are:
i. To appoint the head catechists and new recruits;

ii. To coordinate with local schools regarding catechetical schedules;
iii. To monitor and evaluate the performance of the catechists in their
parish; and
iv. To take disciplinary action on catechists.
f. The Head Catechist shall have the following functions:
i. To help/assist in the ongoing formation of the parish catechists;

ii. To plan, implement, monitor, and evaluate parish catechetical activities
in coordination with the parish priests and the vicariate coordinator;
iii. To recommend hiring and dismissal of catechists to the parish priest;
iv. To attend diocesan and vicariate head catechists’ meetings; and
v. To submit parish catechetical reports.
g. The School Coordinator Catechist shall have the following functions:
i. To coordinate catechetical activities in the school such as catechetical

class schedules and school Masses; and
ii. To facilitate communication between school and the parish.
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2. Personnel
a. Qualifications
Applicants must have the following qualifications:
i. Practicing Catholic;
ii. Male or female, single, married, widow/er, or religious;
iii. Able – have time; physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually fit;
iv. Capable – at least elementary graduate for elementary level catechists,
secondary graduate for secondary level catechists, could read, write,
and understand simple Bikol, Filipino, and English languages;
v. Trainable – willing to undergo training and formation, have positive
attitudes towards renewal and growth;
vi. Good moral standing; and
vii. Pass the screening procedure in the parish.
b. Recruitment Procedure
The parish has the responsibility of recruiting catechists. Recruitment

strategies may vary from one parish to another. The initial screening or
interview is also done on the parish level by the parish priest with the help of
the head catechist. Generally, an applicant must:
i. Accomplish the personal data sheet for reference during the screening;
ii. Undergo the screening process;
iii. Be willing to serve for at least two years; and
iv. Undergo the Basic Faith Formation (BFF) for new catechists.
The Head Catechist shall then prepare a written recommendation for new
recruits to the parish priest. The parish priest shall make the final evaluation
and approval/disapproval of catechists.
c. Status and Categories of Catechists
The LCM is being unselfishly served by volunteer catechists. They are vital
parts of the Church life, providing free services for the education in the faith.
Although they are not employees of the parish where they serve, they are
highly recognized as partners in mission. Professional catechists are those
who have undergone adequate professional training in a Catechetical Training
Center. Volunteer catechists are those trained in the diocese and can be
students, seminarians, teachers, or adults. They may render full-time or part-
time services in the ministry.
d. Service and Work Schedule
Catechesis follows the regular school calendar which starts in August and ends
in May. Since catechetical instructions are done largely in public schools, class
schedules are dependent on available time given by school officials. Close
coordination with the school administration is done by the parish before the
school commences. Written communication regarding the catechetical
activities are sent to concerned school officials. The parish priest or spiritual
director and the head catechist shall make a courtesy call to the school
administration to thresh out matters relative to the catechetical activities.
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i. Attendance and Absences – The catechists are expected to maintain
good attendance record. When absent from scheduled classes,
catechists must notify their head catechist of the reason for their
absence. Anticipated absences must be reported in advance to the
head catechist in order that a substitute can be provided. Catechists
must follow the official schedule.
ii. Time Keeping – Catechists are required to accomplish their daily time
record or a log sheet to be signed by the adviser of the class and to be
submitted to the head catechist.
iii. Uniform – A common diocesan uniform for all catechists should be worn
during classes. Parishes are enjoined to follow the prescribed design
and provide for the catechists’ uniforms.
e. Benefits
Catechists have to live with dignity. All catechists are entitled to free training,
formation, transportation, catechetical materials, and food provisions during
formation programs. When the parish can afford, they are further provided with
social security contribution and uniforms.
Before the start of each school year or as need arises, the Legazpi Catechetical
Ministry shall issue recommended remuneration rates for catechists, including
transportation allowance and other benefits, reflecting current economic
conditions and catechists’ needs.
f. Evaluation
Catechists’ evaluation serves the need to assess the catechist’s mission,

performance, effectiveness, and development. The evaluation is conducted
through:
i. Written test on doctrine, moral, and worship (DMW) given at the end of
the school year;
ii. Class monitoring by the vicarial coordinator with the help of the head
coordinator, or by the LCM director and parish priest; and
iii. Regular class observation and monitoring of attendance by classroom
advisers.
The evaluation will be guided by a prepared observation sheet. The evaluation

results will be collated by the head catechist and/or the vicariate coordinator
and submitted to the parish priest. This will be discussed with the catechists
and other concerned persons for purposes of affirmation and improvement.
g. Resignation and Termination for a Cause
Resignation refers to voluntary separation from active service. A catechist who

wishes to resign may do so in writing or through verbal notification to the head
catechist or parish priest.
Termination shall be done for a just cause in accordance with the existing LCM
policies. Provision of due process is highly suggested.
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An exit interview shall be conducted to recover all borrowed materials and to
settle accountabilities, if any. Lessons learned should also be processed. Other
suggestions for the growth of the ministry should be gathered.
h. Due Process
Any catechetical personnel who violates the LCM Manual of Norms and
Policies shall be entitled to due process. The case shall be handled and dealt
with by the parish priest/spiritual director and the LCM staff. The gravity of the
offense, the frequency of violation, the circumstances that surround the act,
and the intention of the offender shall be considered in all decision making.
Generally, a decision to terminate shall be imposed as a last resort. This shall

be made after the catechist has received verbal or written warnings and has
been given an opportunity to improve performance and conduct.
The following situations call for disciplinary actions:
i. Violation of LCM norms and policies;

ii. Willful failure to report as scheduled or abandonment of assignment;
iii. Engaging in fights, gossips, and other scandalous acts; and
iv. Unauthorized collection of any contribution in any form from students,
parents, and catechetical personnel.
The following situations call for immediate dismissal:
i. Criminal acts against the life of a person;

ii. Disgraceful or immoral conduct such as pregnancy before marriage,
adultery, and illicit relationships;
iii. Tampering or falsifying catechetical records and documents;
iv. Theft;
v. Insubordination and intimidation;
vi. Reporting for schedules/activities under the influence of alcohol or
drugs; and
vii. Child abuse or inflicting physical injuries to students.
3. Pastoral Norms Concerning Catechists
a. Parish Level
Catechesis should be regarded as a priority parish program. A prayer group or

brigade should be established in the parish for the intention of the success of
the parish catechetical program. Suggested prayers after the six o’clock
evening Angelus are: one Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be, and St. Lorenzo
Ruiz, pray for us.
The parish catechetical office/center shall be provided by the parish with least
one copy each of the following books as resources and references by teaching
catechists:
i. Bikol Bible
ii. Catechism of the Catholic Church;
iii. National Catechetical Directory of the Philippines;
iv. Catechism for Filipino Catholics; and
v. Acts/Decrees of the Second Plenary Council of the Philippines.
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b. Barangay-Based Catechesis
A barangay-based catechesis should be introduced and regularly given to

basic sector of society especially to parents, adults, and out-of-school youth.
c. Pre-Sacramental Catechesis
Evangelization programs and/or post-baptismal catechesis shall always

precede the celebration of all sacraments. (Decree #9 – Acts and Decrees of
the 1st Diocesan Synod of Legazpi)
Pre-sacramental catechesis for Baptism, Confirmation and Marriage shall be

given and is obligatory for parents, godparents or sponsors. A program shall
be instituted to make this catechesis available for all on a regular basis.
(Decree #24 – Acts and Decrees of the 1st Diocesan Synod of Legazpi)
Parents and godparents in baptism and confirmation, who are supposed to

teach and inculcate the life of faith to their children/godchildren, should be
required to undergo a meaningful pre-baptismal and/or pre-Confirmation
catechesis in their respective parishes. Similarly, pre-sacramental instruction
should be extended to sponsors/witnesses to marriages. (Decree #2 – Acts
and Decrees of the 1st Diocesan Synod of Legazpi)
Confirmation should be received only after receiving an adequately long and

meaningful preparation. (Decree #1 – Acts and Decrees of the 1st Diocesan
Synod of Legazpi)
d. Adult
In the family, parents should be the first catechists of their children. They shall,
therefore, be provided with adult family catechesis to enable them to perform
their parental duties toward their children. (Decree #21 – Acts and Decrees of
the 1st Diocesan Synod of Legazpi)
4. Formation
The LCM is tasked to provide catechetical services especially with regard to the
formation of catechists. This formation is indispensable for the ministry to attain
efficacy.
a. Basic Faith Formation (BFF)
This is a five-day formation program intended for new catechists to introduce

the basic foundation and realities of catechesis. This also aims to help the
catechists be accustomed with their apostolate and to be a community among
themselves. This stay-in program provides the catechists a more intense
community formation, nurturing in them a deep sense of the Church and
strengthening their faith and spiritual life through basic doctrines, morals, and
worship. The catechists are given a unique and enriching experience of
praying, celebrating, working, and studying together. This training is usually
given at the diocesan or vicarial level. However, parish-level trainings are
conducted depending on pastoral circumstances.
Integration activities are given within the duration of the training. A lesson plan
and a class demonstration are the expected outputs of this training.
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The resource speakers and facilitators are LCM staff, diocesan clergy, and the
religious. Budget for this activity shall come from the LCM funds with parish
counterpart. Donations from generous sponsors are accepted.
b. Refresher Course
Before the start of catechetical instructions for the school year, a refresher
course shall be given with emphasis on methodology. A short reflection or
recollection is done in preparation for the send-off and renewal of commitment.
c. Send-Off and Renewal of Commitment
The send-off (for new catechists) and renewal of commitment (for old
catechists) are done every first Sunday of July. This formation program
implores the help of the Holy Spirit to set on fire the catechists’ heart as they
begin another year of catechetical challenges.
A Mass is celebrated simultaneously in all parishes in the diocese. A uniform

rite is prepared by the LCM for use during the Mass. However, for some valid
reasons, the parish priest may change the schedule of this activity.
d. On-Going Formation / In-Service Training
The main objective of the on-going formation (OGF) program is to make

available to catechists a wellspring of living water that nourishes and
strengthens conviction and commitment to Christ and his teachings.
As PCP II stressed “For all catechists, OGF programs are a necessity, in order
to increase their fervor, purify their motives, and improve their knowledge and
teaching skills.” This formation also updates the catechists with current
catechetical issues and provides renewed appreciation of catechesis which
aims to attain practical results in their lives, in the community, within the
Church, and even beyond its visible boundaries. The OGF serves as one of
the great factors that contribute to their commitment and growth as catechists.
Depending on the catechists’ needs assessment, specific topics are given

emphasis every year. These topics are agreed upon and facilitated by LCM
staff based on their respective areas of assignment.
e. Recollections
For spiritual nourishment and strength, Advent and Lenten recollections are
given to catechists as an integration of their ongoing formations. This can be
done on a vicarial, cluster, or parish level. In some events, catechists are joined
with other religious organizations in the parish. These are facilitated by the
LCM staff, parish priest and/or resource persons with expertise on selected
topics.
f. National Catechetical Month Celebration
In line with the national catechetical celebration and guided by the Episcopal
Commission on Catechesis and Catholic Education (ECCCE) yearly theme,
the catechetical awareness month is launched every September of each year.
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The celebration of the catechetical month is announced during Masses in
parishes, with homilies focusing on the importance of catechesis. Parishes and
schools declare a catechetical day, highlighting the year’s theme in classroom
lessons and various activities such as motorcade, quiz bee, poster making
contests, among others. The month-long celebration ends with a gathering of
all catechists at the vicariate or diocesan level.
g. High School Catechists’ Formation
Given the complicated life that the youths are facing today, high school
students encounter a lot of problems that are beyond their comprehension and
capabilities. Thus, there is the need for more competent and highly trained
catechists that will help them deal with whatever problems beset them.
The LCM conducts an annual formation/training designed for high school

catechists to improve their knowledge on DMW and teaching skills. This
formation/training is done at the diocesan level.
h. Summer Formation for Head Catechists and Assistants
This three-day formation is done every summer for head catechists and their
assistants. This intensive, quality formation is intended to enhance their
capabilities and skills, and equip them with sound doctrines and spirituality
needed to positively respond to their call of duty.
Financial resources come from the LCM fund with parish counterpart through
participants’ registration fees. Facilitators and resource speakers come from
the LCM staff, clergy and religious.
i. Catechists’ Annual Reunion
This whole-day affair aims to foster unity and sense of community among the
catechists. This provides them a venue for them to go out of their usual ways,
develop creativity and joyfully share their hidden talents. This is usually done
every December, but sometimes, during Easter season to initiate catechetical
effort on valuing the highest Christian event worthy of a grand meaningful
celebration. The affair is marked with a Mass, talk, colorful presentation, gift-
giving, among others.
j. Program Evaluation and Planning
This is a yearly systematic assessment of the LCM programs and activities.

This activity reviews the year’s accomplishments vis-à-vis the LCM vision-
mission and thrusts. Results of the assessment are used as inputs for future
planning and implementation.
k. Staff Development
As part of formation, updating and venue for collaboration, the LCM staff
attends the following
activities:
i. Quarterly Bicol catechetical conference meeting;

ii. Annual Meeting of Catechetical Ministers (AMCM, national level);
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iii. Summer catechetical conferences (JPII & Benedict XVI Festival on
Catechesis);
iv. Summer catechetical formation for priests; and
v. Other trainings and formations.
5. Finance
Catechists are among the most faithful servants of the Lord and of the Church in the
Philippines. They are the most hard-working despite the minimal monetary
compensation that they receive (PCP II, 647).
With the challenges brought by this fast changing world, it is evident that we need to
recruit and train many volunteer catechists who will work for the Kingdom of God,
especially for the children and youth. It is imperative that continuous formation
programs and other catechetical needs be provided to the catechists in order to
increase their commitment, purify their motives and improve their knowledge and
skills.
Provision of quality service, however, entails cost. The PCP II encourages the
Christian community to be aware of the financial burden and support the undertakings
of the Church. It is envisioned that a central funding system be established in the
diocese to provide for the needs of the catechists.
The LCM financial resources come from the following sources:
a. For Parish Catechetical Ministry

i. Share in the thirty-five percent (35%) Evangelization Fund from the
annual net savings of the parish cemetery
ii. Baptismal and wedding sponsors
iii. School contributions
iv. Donations
b. For (diocesan) Legazpi Catechetical Ministry

i. Second collections in Masses in all parishes on one Sunday of
September
ii. Other sources
B. SUB-COMMISSION ON BIBLICAL APOSTOLATE
Jesus Christ, the Incarnate Word of God, who came to bring us life, is the very heart of the
pastorale of evangelization. This mission is carried out in the Diocese of Legazpi by promoting
the Bible among the faithful and making it the center of their life. According to St. Jerome,
“Ignorance of the Bible is ignorance of Jesus Christ.” Considering this bold statement in the
reality of our Christian discipleship, the Diocese has formalized the status of the Biblical
Apostolate as a sub-commission adopting the national goals and initiatives. The Biblical
Apostolate is a primary tool in the ministry of the Commission on Christian Education towards
evangelization and the ongoing catechetical formation of the faithful.
The Basic Bible Seminar (BBS) is the leading diocesan program of the Sub-Commission on
Biblical Apostolate. It is an introductory course on Sacred Scripture for all levels of the faithful.
It consists of group activities, conferences, and celebrations geared towards making the Bible
one’s basic prayer book and book of life and geared towards building truly Christian
communities based on the Word of God. It has different modes of implementation, but the
most common practice is the five-evening sessions with mini-workshops. Normally, each
session runs from two to three hours.
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The aims of the BBS are:
1. To appreciate and to read the Bible regularly;
2. To experience the value and riches of the Word of God in the community and its power
to build the Christian community;
3. To deepen and strengthen our Christian faith through prayerful reading and sharing of
God’s Word;
4. To make the Bible our book of life by discovering how it gives meaning to our life and
by living God’s message contained in Sacred Scripture; and
5. To form Bible sharing groups.
C. CATHOLIC EDUCATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF LEGAZPI
The Catholic Educational Association of Legazpi (CEAL) was organized to promote mutual
collaboration among the Catholic schools in the Diocese of Legazpi, to foster excellence,
leadership, and solidarity among the students, faculty, staff, and administrators, and to render
service to the larger community.
CEAL member schools are members of the Catholic Educational Association of the
Philippines (CEAP), the national association of Catholic educational institutions in the
Philippines. CEAP is a voluntary organization which operates through regional educational
associations located in the 16 regions of the country. Thus, in Region V (Bicol), CEAP
operates through the Bikol Association of Catholic Schools (BACS), of which CEAL is a
member.
1. Membership
All Catholic schools in the Diocese of Legazpi are members of the CEAL. The current
membership consists of two (2) seminaries, one (1) university, one (1) college, one (1)
vocational-technical school, nine (9) secondary and elementary schools, and six (6)
parish-based kindergarten schools. The following are the member schools:
a. Mater Salutis College Seminary, Daraga, Albay

b. St. Gregory the Great Seminary, Tabaco City
c. University of Santo Tomas Legazpi, Legazpi City
d. Divine Word College of Legazpi, Legazpi City
e. Don Bosco Agro-Technical Training School, Legazpi City
f. Catholic Central School of Tabaco, Tabaco City
g. Dominican School of Camalig, Camalig, Albay
h. Saint Agnes’ Academy, Legazpi City
i. Saint Benedict’s Academy, Guinobatan, Albay
j. Saint Mary’s Academy, Ligao City
k. Saint Michael’s Academy, Oas, Albay
l. Saint Peter’s Academy, Polangui, Albay
m. Saint Raphael Academy, Legazpi City
n. Virgin of Carmel High School, Tiwi, Albay
o. Colegio de Santa Luisa de Marillac, Libon, Albay
p. Holy Cross Children’s Home, Tabaco City
q. Marian Formation Center, Daraga, Albay
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r. Marian Formation Center, Oas, Albay
s. Marian Formation Center, Tabaco City
t. Saint Rose of Lima Learning Center, Bacacay, Albay
2. Officers
The association is governed by officers, with the Bishop of the Diocese of Legazpi as
Honorary Chairman. He appoints/designates a CEAL Superintendent who comes from
the clergy. The officers of the association are the President, the Vice President,
Secretary, Treasurer, and Auditor, elected by majority vote of the heads of schools or
their accredited representatives. Tertiary, Secondary and Elementary Commissioners
are also selected by majority vote of the members of the association.
a. The President presides over all meetings of the association and approves all
fund disbursements. S/he represents the association at any official function.
b. The Vice President assumes the function of the President in case of the latter’s
absence, incapacity, disability, or resignation until a regular President shall
have been elected. S/he also performs such other functions that may be
assigned to him by the President or the executive Committee from time to time.
c. The Secretary records and keeps the minutes of the meetings of the
association and the Executive Committee. S/he gives notice of meetings and
issues from time to time pertinent directives in consultation with the President.
S/he furnishes each member with a copy of the minutes.
d. The Treasurer collects the annual membership and quota fees of the member
schools. S/he disburses all duly approved amounts and keeps accurate
account of receipts, disbursements, and other financial transactions. S/he
keeps a complete and up-to-date inventory of all the properties of the
association. S/he renders a financial report to the association duly audited
during meeting or at the end of the school year.
e. The Auditor audits all funds and examines the properties of the association
from time to time.
3. Election and Terms of Office
The Officers, including the Tertiary, Secondary and Elementary Commissioner, hold
office for a two (2) year term. An officer is eligible for re-election but may not hold the
same office for more than two (2) consecutive terms. In case of vacancy in any office,
the board may elect someone to complete the unexpired term.
4. The Executive Committee
The Executive Committee consists of the President, the Vice President, Secretary,
Treasurer, Auditor, the CEAL Superintendent and the three (3) Commissioners. The
Executive Committee has the power to manage, operate and direct the affairs of the
association in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution and By-Laws.
The Executive Committee meets when convoked by the President or upon the request
of at least three (3) members of the committee. A simple majority of the members of
the Executive Committee is necessary at all meetings to constitute a quorum for the
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transactions of any business. Every decision of the simple majority of the quorum duly
assembled constitutes a valid act of the association.
Minutes of all meetings of the Executive Committee are kept and carefully preserved
as a record of the business transacted at such meeting.
5. Activities
In pursuit of its aims, CEAL organizes periodic activities for different sectors of the
school community: administrators, teachers, staff, students, and parents.
a. Administrators
i. Monthly administrators’ meeting in the different CEAL schools.
ii. Echo Session on Seminar/Workshops, Congress, or Conventions
attended.
iii. Biennial exposure trips/educational tours to congregational sister
schools and important places, landmarks in the Philippines.
b. Teachers
i. Annual Teachers’ Congress
ii. Seminar-Workshops
iii. Educational tours
iv. Networking Scholarship Program
Examples:
— Religious administrators enrolled in the
graduate/undergraduate courses in University of Santo
Tomas Legazpi have special discounts for tuition fees.
— Divine Word College of Legazpi offers a Religious Education
Program.
c. Staff Development/Involvement Program
d. Students
i. Annual Youth Pilgrimage
ii. Cultural Presentations
iii. CEALYMPICS/Literary Musical Programs
iv. Peace Vigil
v. Youth Camp
vi. Leadership Training
vii. Youth Festival
viii. Students’ Congress
ix. School Assembly
x. Echo Seminar-Workshops
e. Parents
i. CEAL Parents’ Assembly
ii. Parenting skills workshop and other related activities
6. Community Extension Services
The Catholic Church, as the servant of the poor and the needy, takes them as Her
primary members whose concerns and needs are uncompromised priority. The
Catholic schools as Her partner in the formation of conscience and commitment
through education articulates this thrust through various outreach activities and
community development programs. Hence, CEAL adopts a community for sustainable,
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empowering, and life-giving outreach activities for the benefit of our less fortunate
brethren and as a positive response to this universal call of bringing Christ to the
people.
D. SUB-COMMISSION ON RENEWAL MOVEMENTS AND PROGRAMS
1. Cursillos in Christianity, also known as Cursillos de Cristiandad, meaning “short

courses of Christianity,” is an apostolic movement of the Roman Catholic Church. It
was founded in Majorca, Spain, by a group of laymen in 1944, while they were refining
a technique to train pilgrimage Christian leaders. The Cursillo focuses on showing
Christian laypeople how to become effective Christian leaders over the course of a
three-day weekend. The weekend includes fifteen talks, called rollos, which are given
by priests and laypeople. The major emphasis of the weekend is to ask participants to
take what they have learned back into the world, on what is known as the “fourth day.”
The method stresses personal spiritual development, as accelerated by weekly group
reunions after the initial weekend.
2. The New Evangelization Pastorale (NEP) helps Filipino Catholics pursue the goals
of the New Evangelization envisioned by the Second Plenary Council of the Philippines
(PCP II). It is a pastorale, in contrast with a program. A program has a connotation of
an imposition from authorities and thus may provoke a reaction of resistance. A
program has also the tendency to create the impression that it is an optional thing:
people may or may not take it. Pastorale implies an obligatory nature. As pastorale,
New Evangelization flows from the very nature of the Church, of faith, of infant baptism.
Hence, every parish, as a local Church, must adapt the New Evangelization, in
whatever name, to fulfill its nature and mission to give birth to new creatures, children
of God. The New Evangelization Pastorale is therefore not an optional mission of the
parish, but a natural obligation and duty of the local church, if only to fulfill the true
meaning of its being which is identified with its mission. Every baptized, especially if
baptized as infant, has the obligation to undergo a post-baptismal formation as
envisioned by the JP II’s New Evangelization and CCC 1231. Hence the Church has
no right to deprive the baptized, her children, of the necessary formation in the faith
demanded by the very nature of baptism, especially of infant baptism. The NEP has
four (4) phases: Pre-evangelization, Kerygmatic Evangelization or Pre-Catechesis,
Initiatory Catechesis, and Permanent Catechesis or Pastoral Care.
3. Parish Renewal Experience (PREX) is a rediscovery of our faith, a strong recall to

belonging to the Church. PREX is neither a new organization nor a new society; neither
does it dismantle existing groups and societies. It is about the parishes renewing
themselves. It is based on the concept expressed by Pope Paul VI: “The Church is an
evangelizer, but she begins by evangelizing herself by constant conversion and
renewal, in order to evangelize world with credibility” (Evangelii Nuntiandi). The
seminar consists of ten (10) talks, and an eleventh post-PREX talk.
E. COMMITTEE ON CULTURE
Responding to the challenges posed by the First Legazpi Diocesan Pastoral Assembly, the
Committee on Culture helps strengthen the diocesan structures and policies and provide
needed assistance in the evangelization process. The Committee shall:
1. Promote the encounter between the saving Message of the Gospel and the culture of
our times.
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2. Undertake the appropriate initiatives to promote dialogue between faith and cultures,
and to foment intercultural dialogue.
3. Oversee the cultural initiatives of the diocese, making these propitious occasions for
the dissemination of the pertinent Directives of the Pontifical Council for Culture.
4. Enter into dialogue with regional and diocesan centers with the aim of encouraging
fruitful exchange about the research, initiatives and cultural accomplishments carried
out by local Churches and enabling the whole Church in the Philippines to benefit from
them.
5. Collaborate with local Catholic organizations of a historical, philosophical, theological,

scientific, media, artistic, and intellectual value, and to promote reciprocal cooperation.
6. Ensure the effective participation of the local Church in congresses concerned with
science, media, culture, and education.
7. Facilitate Church-culture dialogue at the level of universities and research centers,

organizations of artists and specialists, media practitioners, scientists, researchers,
and scholars, and to promote worthwhile meetings among these cultural groups.
F. COMMITTEE ON MISSION
Vatican II, in its decree on the Church Missionary Activity states that: “The Church on earth is
by its very nature missionary” (Ad Gentes, 2). And what is this nature of the Church as being
missionary all about? It is no other than the commissioning of Christ’s apostles and their
successors to go to the whole world to proclaim the Good News (Mk 16:20). In Matthew 28:18-
20, Jesus says: “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Go, therefore, to all
peoples everywhere and make them my disciples, baptizing them in the name of the Father
and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teach them to obey everything I have commanded
you. And I will be with you always until the end of time.”
1. Regulation of Fostering Missionary Cooperation
The New Code of Canon Law, particularly Canon 791, mentions the regulation of
fostering missionary cooperation in individual dioceses, namely:
a. The promotion of missionary vocation;

b. The appointment of priests to promote effectively endeavors on behalf of the
missions, especially the Pontifical Missionary Union;
c. The observance of the annual Mission Sunday; and
d. An effective collection of monetary contributions for the missions.
2. Enabling Objectives
a. To educate the faithful about the missions and their responsibility to share,
through homilies, catechesis, posters, and other materials;
b. To awaken and nurture missionary vocations;
c. To enable involvement and identification with world mission as a vital part of
the activities of the diocese; and
d. To promote and organize prayer groups who will pray for our missionaries of
the world.
3. Composition
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a. The Mission Head shall be a priest of the Diocese of Legazpi and member of
the Diocesan Commission on Christian Education should head this Committee.
On the national level, the Philippine Mission Societies Inc., the head is
designated as the Director. However, in view of the Diocesan Pastoral Plan of
Legazpi, Mission is under the DCCE as one of the seven sub-commissions,
with its head carrying the title of Chairman. So, the Mission Head can be
considered Director/Chairman.
b. The Assistant Mission Head shall be a priest of the same Diocese and
member of the same Commission.
c. Lay Members shall be representatives of the six (6) vicariates of the Diocese
of Legazpi, recommended by the head of the Vicarial Commission on Christian
Education. There should be at least 2 persons from each vicariate.
4. Activities for Mission Promotion
a. Diocesan Mission Week – A circular letter from the bishop is needed declaring
a Diocesan Mission Week, which shall begin on the Sunday before the World
Mission Sunday. The week has the following highlights
(Diocesan/Vicariate/Parish): (a) Missiological Talks (b) Children and Youth
Activities (in the school or parish). These will happen in coordination with the
Catechetical Ministry. The celebration of the World Mission Sunday concludes
the Diocesan Mission Week.
b. Missa Pro Missione – On the Sunday before the World Mission Sunday or the
second and third Sundays of October, and practically during the Diocesan
Mission Week, Missa Pro Missione should be said to help parishioners and
institution participate actively in mission promotion by praying for missionaries,
missionary vocation and mission territories, by supporting the missions through
their financial contribution, and by organizing other activities that promote
mission awareness.
c. Mission Clubs – Children and youth of Catholic schools and interested non-
sectarian schools can join mission clubs for the promotion of mission activities
in their schools.
G. COMMITTEE FOR THE DOCTRINE OF THE FAITH
The Committee for the Doctrine of the Faith is a consultative body meant to assist the Diocese
itself and the Bishop in the teaching of the faith. The Code of Canon Law describes the
teaching office of the Church as an “obligation and inherent right,” “independent of any human
authority; for it is to the Church that Christ the Lord entrusted the deposit of faith, so that by
the assistance of the Holy Spirit, it might conscientiously guard revealed truth, more intimately
penetrate it, and faithfully proclaim and expound it" (Can. 747 §1). This Office is exercised by
the Bishop in his local Church. The role of the Committee is to facilitate and support the
exercise of that authority by the Bishop. The Committee for the Doctrine of the Faith shall:
1. Promote and safeguard the unity of faith and morals in the diocese.
2. See to it that the doctrinal declarations coming from the Magisterium of the Universal
Church are firmly obeyed and “teachings concerning faith or morals enunciated by the
Roman Pontiff or the College of Bishops when they exercise their authentic
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Magisterium, even if they do not intend to proclaim such teachings by a definitive act”
(Ad Tuendam Fidem, 2-3) are followed.
3. Take care that the doctrinal declarations of CBCP, which deal with “new questions and
(act) so that the message of Christ enlightens and guides people’s conscience in
resolving new problems arising from changes in society”, are adhered to by the faithful
with a sense of religious respect as coming from the authentic Magisterium of their
own Bishops (Apostolos Suos, 22).
4. Assist the Bishop in publicizing the documents of the Papal Magisterium and comment
on them as the needs of the Local Church in the Diocese require.
5. Seek the help of experts and periti (theologian consultants) on religious matters and
concerns when necessary.
6. Promote the writing of textbooks by authors who are recognized for their scholarship
and their steadfast fidelity to the Church’s Magisterium, and make sure that such
publication must have the official approval of the Bishop through his deputies.
7. Promote the work of Christian Education by fostering cooperation among Theology

and Religious Education (ReEd/CLE) teachers in universities, colleges, seminaries,
and all other experts in the ecclesiastical disciplines.
8. Help resolve questions that seriously and locally undermine the doctrine of faith and
morals in the Diocese.
9. Be vigilant on attempts to disseminate atheism in universities, colleges and schools,

mass media or parishes, and to inform the Bishop about it, thereto giving its
recommendations to counteract this serious danger to the faith.
10. Maintain communication with the DCCE for Dialogue with Non-Believers on matters of
mutual concern and interest in the Diocese.
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DIOCESAN COMMISSION ON SOCIAL CONCERNS
Policies of the Sub-Commission on Social Action
A. TADÂ (Tanganing an Dukha Atamanon)
“Tadâ, a Bikol word that means crumbs or leftovers, is based on a very simple rationale…
Starting with our tadâ means starting small, but with a view to a bigger end. We start by
opening our eyes to the reality of poverty and our capacity to empower the needy. We proceed
with instilling a habit of giving in everyone in order to form our hearts to become ever more
generous with our gifts and ever more trusting in the Lord, the Giver of gifts” (Most Rev. Joel
Z. Baylon, DD, An Satong mga Tadâ: A Pastoral Letter on TADÂ, a Program for the Benefit
of the Poor in the Diocese).
1. Nature
TADÂ (Tanganing an Dukha Atamanon) is the flagship program for the poor of the
Diocese of Legazpi. It stands as an acronym for Tanganing an Dukha Atamanon
(loosely translated, so the poor may be helped). It seeks to raise consciousness and
funds for services and programs for the poor.
2. Principles
TADÂ adheres to principles drawn from the Gospel and the social teachings of the
Church:
a. Preferential Option for the Poor. The Gospels speak of the care for the poor
and weak as integral to evangelization and a necessary requirement for
salvation. Further the mandate for the Church in the Philippines is to develop
a “love of preference for the poor” and grow into a Church of the Poor.
b. Transparency and Accountability. A good system of internal control and

transparent reporting ensures that donors’ intentions are respected and builds-
up the trust and confidence of stakeholders.
c. Solidarity and Subsidiarity. Seventy percent (70%) of the funds collected in

TADÂ canisters remain with the parishes so they have immediate access to
funds for poverty response projects in their respective areas. The other half is
remitted to SAC Legazpi, which in turn gives it back equitably to parishes in
the form of trainings and additional project support.
3. Objectives
a. Share. Encourage the faithful to save and share for the poor.
b. Advocate. Organize and build the capacity of Parish Commissions on Social

Concerns and partners to effectively initiate and sustain anti-poverty and
development projects.
c. Care. Develop projects and services to empower the poor and reduce poverty,
with a view to eradicating extreme poverty in the province. The direction is to
synergize the efforts of various institutions and communities in the diocese by
forming them into the TADÂ “H.E.L.P.E.D.” response clusters: Healthcare,
Education, Livelihood, Protection, Empowerment, and Disaster Risk
Reduction.
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4. Implementation
The Social Action Center (SAC) spearheads the implementation of TADÂ under the
auspices of the Diocesan Commission on Social Concerns (DCSC). The Parish
Commission on Social Concerns (PCSC) takes charge of its promotion and
sustainability in the parish level.
5. Financial Management Policies
a. TADÂ Fund in the Parish Pastoral Fund
i. The TADÂ Fund shall be a subsidiary account in the Parish Pastoral

Fund, which shall be treated as a fund-held-in-trust, i.e., it cannot be
used for any purpose other than the objectives of TADÂ and the
intentions of its donors.
ii. Parish Cash/Check Voucher for TADÂ Fund
iii. Parish Journal Voucher for TADÂ Fund
b. TADÂ Collection
i. TADÂ collection may come from several streams: monthly TADÂ

Sunday Collection, regular Barangay Masses and First Friday Masses
TADÂ Collection, and walk-in donations. Walk-in donations in TADÂ
bottles or canister shall receive an acknowledgment receipt (without
indication of amount).
ii. TADÂ collections shall be placed in a dedicated TADÂ box or vault in

the parish office or a designated secure place.
iii. TADÂ contributions shall be counted weekly by assigned PCSC

members and supervised by the PCSC Treasurer. The count shall be
recorded in the Weekly TADÂ Cash Flow Statement, which shall be
reported to the parish community.
iv. The PCSC Treasurer shall remit the weekly TADÂ collection to the
parish office, which will then issue an official receipt to the PCSC. An
assigned parish office staff shall deposit the collection to the Parish
Pastoral Fund bank account. The deposit slip shall be kept by the
PCSC Treasurer for record purposes.
v. The PCSC Treasurer shall generate a monthly report of TADÂ

collection (and expenses). Bookkeeping shall be handled by the Parish
Finance Council.
vi. Thirty percent (30%) of the monthly collection shall be remitted

regularly to the Social Action Center, which in turn shall issue an official
receipt to the PCSC.
vii. Seventy percent (70%) of the monthly collection shall be retained to the
parish to assist their TADÂ - HELPED program.
viii. All reports and documentation shall be kept on file by the PCSC
Treasurer.
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c. TADÂ Disbursement
i. The approved Annual PCSC Plan and Budget and/or approved

decisions in a PCSC Meeting shall be the basis of any request for
disbursement from the PCSC-TADÂ Fund. The Fund shall be used
exclusively for development and humanitarian projects for the poor,
especially those that fall under the TADÂ-HELPED framework.
HELPED stands for Healthcare, Education, Livelihood, Protection,
Empowerment, DRR-CCA).
ii. Fund request per activity shall be prepared by a PCSC member or

officer. The Fund Request shall require the PCSC Chair’s endorsement
and Pastor’s approval.
iii. An approved fund request shall be submitted to the PCSC Treasurer

who shall withdraw the approved amount from the Parish Pastoral Fund
bank account and issue it to the requesting party for the intended
purpose. The transaction shall be recorded in the Parish Cash or Check
Voucher for the Parish Pastoral Fund account. All withdrawal slips and
checks shall require the signature of the Pastor and PPC Chair, or their
alternates.
iv. The PCSC Treasurer is allowed a maximum amount of ₱2,000.00 as

petty cash fund for various small and immediate expenses. The Parish
Cash Voucher shall be used to record every disbursement using the
petty cash fund. Replenishment of the petty cash fund shall be done
using the Fund Request Form.
v. The activity shall be implemented as approved and funded. The fund

shall be liquidated. All reports and documentation shall be kept on file
by the PCSC Treasurer.
d. TADÂ Liquidation
i. The liquidation shall contain an Activity report and Expense Report with
supporting documents, i.e. attendance, write-up/article with photos, and
official receipts for the expenses.
ii. The liquidation shall be endorsed by the PCSC Chair and approved by
the Pastor. The report shall be submitted to the parish Bookkeeper
who in turn shall record the transactions in the Parish Cash Receipts
and Cash Disbursements Books, and include them in the Parish
Financial Report.
6. Parish Disaster Response (PaDRe) Fund
a. A Parish Disaster Relief (PaDRe) Fund shall be set aside from the total TADÂ
Fund in every parish in the diocese as a reserve fund to quickly respond to
disaster emergencies. The fund cannot be used for any other purpose.
b. SAC Legazpi shall issue a counterpart amount for every amount raised by the
parish for the PaDRe Fund up to ₱5,000.00.
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c. Requirement for release of SAC Legazpi counterpart fund:
i. Parish Pastoral Fund bank account
ii. TADÂ Financial Report
iii. Initial formation of PaDReCom
iv. Request from Pastor and PCSC
B. PARISH DISASTER RESPONSE COMMITTEE (PaDReCom)
1. Functions
a. Draft and implement a Disaster Risk Reduction - Climate Change Adaptation

(DRR-CCA) for the parish.
b. Conduct training and assistance to communities and barangays in DRR-CCA.
c. Spearhead emergency response during times of disasters.
d. Partner with local government units, in particular with the City/Municipality
DRRMC, and Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Committee
(BDRRMCs).
2. Ex-Officio Officers and Action Teams
The PaDReCom shall consist of the following ex-officio officers and action teams:
a. Chairs: Pastor
Chair, Parish Commission on Social Concerns (PCSC)
b. Vice Chairs: Parochial Vicar

Lay Co-Chair, Parish Pastoral Council
c. Action Teams
i. Secretariat / Information and Education Campaign: PCSC
ii. Rapid Field Assessment: Parish Commission on Ecclesial
Communities (PCEC) and Barangay Pastoral Councils (BPCs)
iii. Food and Relief Distribution: PCSC, BPCs, and Parish Commission
on Youth
iv. Shelter Management and Storage Security: Parish Commission on
Temporalities
v. Spiritual Services: Parish Commission on Worship
vi. Psycho-Social Services: Parish Commission on Christian Education
vii. Volunteers: Parish Commission on Family and Life
3. Emergency Response Action Steps
Time Parish Diocese

Frame PaDReCom/PCSC SAC/DCSC
1-3 Days • Pastor activates PaDReCom • SAC Legazpi activates
before and calls for a preparatory Emergency Office Set-up –
Calamity meeting meets and assigns
• Prepare PaDReFund responsibilities to staff
• Attend C/MDRRMC meeting • Attend PDRRMC meeting
• Prepare to welcome • Communicate advisories to
evacuees to church facilities PaDReComs/PCSCs
• Start shelter management
and soup kitchen
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• Report on parish preparations • Collate reports on parish
to SAC and Veritas Legazpi preparations and update aid
partners and Veritas Legazpi
• Early office closing to go to
families and assigned areas
Day 0-12hrs • Stay safe • Stay safe
prior and • Update SAC and Veritas • Partner with Veritas Legazpi
during the Legazpi on ground situation on disaster coverage
calamity • Shelter management and • Collate reports on ground
soup kitchen for evacuees in situation and update aid
church facilities partners
• Maintain contact with
PDRRMC and relevant
government agencies
Day 1 after • De-camp and clean-up • Take care of personal and
the calamity • Take care of personal and family dwellings and
family dwellings and concerns concerns
• Initial Rapid Field Assessment • Conduct initial Rapid Field
Assessment in assigned
areas and connect with
Pastors and PCSCs
Day 2 - 3 • Pastor calls for • Reporting to office and
after the PaDReCom/PCSC meeting to general staff meeting to
calamity decide on immediate disaster decide on immediate disaster
response response
• Send RFA data to SAC and • Send initial appeal and RFA
Veritas Legazpi data to aid partners
• Conduct urgent relief
activities
Day 4 - 7 • Conduct urgent relief • Draw up diocesan
after the activities emergency response plan
calamity • Monitor developing situations • Conduct urgent relief
on the ground and gather activities
feedback on immediate relief • Gather updated ground
activities situations and PDRRMC
• Send updated data to SAC report
and Veritas Legazpi • Send updated appeal and
• Send appeal to parishioners RFA data to aid partners
and outside contacts
Week 2 • Partner with SAC Legazpi on • Conduct continuing relief
after the continuing disaster relief operations, monitoring, and
calamity operations updating of aid partners
Week 3 • Manage own relief operations • Draw up plan for early
and assist aid partners’ relief recovery and rehabilitation
activities on the ground phases
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DIOCESAN COMMISSION ON TEMPORALITIES
A. POLICIES OF THE SUB-COMMISSION ON LANDS
All lands owned by the Roman Catholic Bishop of Legazpi, Inc. shall be under the control and
administration of the Diocesan Commission on Temporalities (DCT), Sub-Commission on
Lands. Accordingly, any transaction and development shall be coordinated with and managed
by the Commission.
1. Administration
a. The Sub-Commission on Lands shall handle all problems pertaining to all the
lands owned by the diocese. The Sub-Commission shall recommend the
approved contracts to be signed by the Chair of the DCT.
b. The Chairman of the Commission on Temporalities is the only priest authorized

by the Bishop to sign contracts on his behalf. Any transaction on lands not
being approved by the Chairman of the commission and the Bishop shall not
be honored.
2. Operations
a. The Sub-Commission on Lands may enter into any lands transaction in the
parish with or without the approval of the parish priest. However, the Sub-
Commission on Lands is required to give reports to the parish priest about the
transaction.
b. Conveyance, disposition, issuance of contracts, lot titling, receipt of payments

and donations, lot survey, and all similar transactions shall be centralized and
acted upon by the Sub-Commission.
c. Only Deeds and Contracts signed by the Roman Catholic Bishop of Legazpi,
Inc. or his duly authorized representative and Chairman of the Commission on
Temporalities shall be honored.
d. Any claims of payments or ownership of lots must be supported by receipts of

full payment, Deed of Sale, Deed of Donation, lot title; the burden of proof of
which is upon the claimant.
e. Actual possessors of church lots will be given a preferential right in the sales
of lots where survey and technical description in narrative form will be made
by the Buyer before issuance of the Deed of Sale.
f. Current value of lot will be imposed in the sales of lots while payment of Capital
Gains Tax, transfer and documentary stamp tax will be on the account of the
Buyer.
g. No installment sales of lots will be allowed without executing first a notarized

Agreement to Sell.
h. Clients on lands who are interested in availing the property of the diocese
through lease or sale should always be given receipts, Contract to Sell, or Deed
of Sale.
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3. Transactions
a. All payments on lands shall be done in the Chancery with accompanying official
receipt from an authorized Chancery personnel or priest.
b. Collected income on lands must have a separate account and must be strictly
disbursed for land purposes only such as: land cases, procurement on lands,
lot titling, lot surveys, notarizations of documents, and honorarium for workers
on lands.
c. The Bishop may decide to divert the use of funds for any other purpose only
after informing and soliciting the suggestions of the Board of Consultors and
the Diocesan Finance Council.
B. SUB-COMMISSION ON BUILDINGS, SITES, AND CULTURAL HERITAGE
1. Objectives
The Sub-Commission on Buildings, Sites, and Cultural Heritage is tasked to preserve

and observe the safety of the faithful.
a. To make sure that areas in their proper use to provide comfort and functionality.
b. To make sure that public safety is well observed during constructions.
c. To follow standard compliance with the pertinent laws and to be faithful in the
Church’s liturgical designs.
d. To safeguard and conserve all diocesan cultural heritage, both intangible and
tangible.
e. To make sure that all barangay chapels are well planned according to liturgical
aspects and properly donated to the diocese.
2. Nature
The Sub-Commission is composed of priests and lay persons tasked primarily to

coordinate and provide advisory assistance on the technical planning, construction or
reconstruction, renovation by way of extensions, addition or expansion, restoration
and repairs of buildings, and development of sites in the diocese.
3. Functions
a. Meet and confer with Pastors and Parish Pastoral Councils who plan to
construct, to restore, renovate, repair, and develop buildings and sites in the
diocese.
b. Recommend to the Bishop for approval or disapproval of any plan of

construction, renovation, restoration, repair of buildings, and development of
sites, including modification and alteration of such plans in compliance to the
standards of architecture and engineering or government regulations
c. Assist Pastors and other persons concerned in securing the services of

qualified engineers, architects, and other trade professionals and experts
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charged to the project proponent including the securing of necessary
government regulatory permits required.
d. Oversee that all national treasures and national landmark structures and the
like in the diocese are under the direct supervision of the Diocesan
Commission on Temporalities, specifically under the Sub-Commission on
Buildings, Sites and Cultural Heritage.
e. Help in the design of appropriate churches and barangay chapels.
f. Provide necessary legal advice on the laws governing buildings, sites, and
cultural heritage.
4. Duties and Obligations of Pastors
a. Pastors are required to prepare an Accomplishment Report (Financial and

Progress Report) of the project they organized.
b. Newly designated Pastors shall not be allowed to organize any construction,

renovation, or restoration projects for a period of six (6) months. This provision
should be included in the Decree of Appointment.
c. Pastors should be knowledgeable on the laws governing buildings, lands, sites,

and cultural heritages. This can be achieved by organizing seminars for the
clergy on the aforementioned laws.
d. Pastors should strictly adhere to Republic Act 7420 (Electrical Code).
e. Pastors who violate the diocesan policies on buildings, lands, sites, and
cultural heritages shall be liable to disciplinary sanction by the Bishop.
5. Workflow
a. Prior to any construction plan, the Pastor shall see to it that the site is under
the ownership of the Roman Catholic Bishop of Legazpi, Inc.
b. Under the Corporation Sole Law, the Bishop or Ordinary of the place has the
sole prerogative to sign any Contract of Memorandum of Agreement between
the parish of the diocese and the contracting party. A Pastor does not have any
prerogative or authority.
c. The concerned parish and/or individuals submitting the preliminary plan they
prepared for review.
d. A preliminary conference with the people concerned and an ocular inspection

of the site are conducted.
e. Submission of the initial findings and recommendations to the Bishop by the

Sub-Commission.
f. Follow-up meeting with the concerned individuals and making the final plans
and costs estimates of the undertaking.
g. Recommendation of the plan for final approval by the Bishop.
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h. Periodic monitoring of the implementation of the approved plan of the project.
i. Technical evaluation of the completed project prior to the blessing and

inauguration.
j. Post-construction evaluation and monitoring of the completed project.
k. Help in setting up of maintenance plan of the completed project.
6. Law and Policies Implemented by the Government

(Herein provided are regulations issued by the corresponding agency of the Philippine
government which form part of the diocesan policies on buildings and sites.)
a. Architectural
All architectural works must conform to the existing laws Republic Act 9266,
Batas Pambansa 344, National Building Code of the Philippines, and other
building laws with great consideration among heritage sites and old buildings.
They must conform to the prevailing heritage laws, such as Republic Act
10066, and for churches, the liturgical policies.
i. Heritage Law (R.A. 10066), Article I, Sections 2 and 5.
Section 2. Declaration of Principles and Policies. – Sections 14, 15, 16,

and 17, Article XIV of the 1987 Constitution declare that the State shall
foster the preservation, enrichment, and dynamic evolution of Filipino
culture based on the principle of unity in diversity in a climate of free
artistic and intellectual expression. The constitution likewise mandates
the State to conserve, develop, promote, and popularize the nation’s
historical and cultural heritage and resources, as well as artistic
creations. It further provides that, all the country’s artistic and historic
wealth constitutes the cultural treasure of the nation and shall be under
the protection of the State, which may regulate its disposition.
In the pursuit of cultural preservation as a strategy for maintaining

Filipino identity, this Act shall pursue the following objectives:
(a) Protect, preserve, conserve and promote the nation’s cultural

heritage, its property and histories, and the ethnicity of the local
communities;
(b) Establish and strengthen cultural institutions; and;
(c) Protect cultural workers and ensure their professional
development and well-being.
The State shall likewise endeavor to create a balanced atmosphere

where the historic past co-exists in harmony with modern society. It
shall approach the problem of conservation in an integrated and holistic
manner, cutting across all relevant disciplines and technologies. The
State shall further administer the heritage resources in a spirit of
stewardship for the inspiration and benefit of the present and future
generations.
Section 5. Cultural Property Considered Important Cultural Property. –

For purposes of protecting a cultural property against exportation,
modification or demolition, the following works shall be considered
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Important Cultural Property, unless declared otherwise by the pertinent
cultural agency:
Unless declared by the Commission,

(a) Works by a Manlilikha ng Bayan;
(b) Works by a National Artist;
Unless declared by the National Museum,

(c) Archeological and traditional ethnographic materials;
Unless declared by the National Historical Institute,

(d) Works of national heroes;
(e) Marked structure;
(f) Structures dating at least fifty (50) years old; and
Unless declared by the National Archives,

(g) Archival material/ document dating at least fifty (50) years old.
The property owner may petition the appropriate cultural agency to

remove the presumption of important cultural property which shall not
be unreasonable withheld.
ii. National Building Code of the Philippines (P.D. 1096), Rule III,
Section 301. No person, firm or corporation, including any agency or
instrumentality of the government shall construct, alter, repair, convert,
use, occupy, move, demolish and add any building/ structure or any
portion thereof or cause the same to be done, without first obtaining a
building permit therefore from the building official assigned in the place
where the subject building/ structure is located or to be done. The
prescribed application for the permit form (C Form B-01) shall be used
by all applicants.
iii. Fire Code of the Philippines (R.A. 9514), Rule I. It is the policy of the
State to ensure public safety, promote economic development through
the prevention and suppression of all kinds of destructive fires, and
promote the professionalization of the fire service as a profession.
Towards this end, the State shall enforce laws, rules and regulations to
ensure adherence to standard fire prevention and safety measures and
promote accountability in the fire protection and prevention service.
iv. Plumbing Code (R.A.1378), Section 102. A registered and license

Master Plumber shall file an application at the Office of the Building
Official in behalf of the building owner for whom such work shall be
done and shall fill out the forms provided for that purpose.
v. Accessibility Law (B.P. 344), Rule I. The Rules and Regulations set
forth herein provide for maximum requirements and standards to make
buildings, facilities and utilities for public use accessible to disabled
persons, pursuant to the objectives of Batas Pambansa 344, an act to
enhance the Mobility of Disabled Persons by requiring certain buildings,
institutions, establishments and public utilities to install facilities and
other devices.
b. Structural
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i. Structural Plans
(a) Foundation plans and details at scale not less than 1:100
(b) Floor/roof framing plans and details at scale not less than 1:100
ii. Structural Analysis
Structural analysis and design for all buildings and structures, except
for one-story and single detached buildings and structures, with a total
area of 20.00 sq. meters or less.
iii. Boring and Load Test
Buildings or structures of three (3) storeys and higher, boring tests and,
if necessary, load test shall be required in accordance with the
applicable latest approved provisions of the National Structural Code of
the Philippines (NSCP). However, adequate soil exploration (including
boring and load test) shall also be required for lower buildings/
structures and areas with potential geological/ geotechnical hazards.
The written report of the civil/ geotechnical engineer including but not
limited to the design bearing capacity as well as the result of tests shall
be submitted together with the requirements in the application for a
building permit. Boring test or load test shall be done according to the
applicable provisions of the NSCP which set forth requirements
governing excavation, grading and earthwork construction, including
fills 7 embankments for any buildings/ structure and for foundation and
retaining structures.
iv. Other related documents: Please refer to the latest edition of the
National Structural Code of the Philippines (NSCP).
c. Electrical
All church facilities, whether applied to as church, rectory, chapel, dormitories,

and other places of gathering like cemeteries, are classified as public buildings
and institutional loads. Hence, they are subject to a guarantee that public safety
is a priority. In view of this, all subsequent institutional actions shall be made
to secure public safety issues.
i. Electrical Reference and Regulatory Compliance
All electrical installations whether for indoor or outdoor utilization shall

be covered by the provisions of the latest edition of the Philippine
Electrical Code, volumes 1 and 2.
The applicable type of power supply service shall be single phase, two
(2) or three (3) wire, 230V AC, 60Hertz frequency. All other specification
of power supply shall be subject to category evaluation by a Licensed
Electrical Engineer.
All electrical installations categorized as new, renovation, alteration or

modifications in either indoor or outdoor application shall be subject to:
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(a) Evaluation and review of the Diocesan Commission on
Temporalities and subsequent action by the Chancery of the
Diocese of Legazpi;
(b) Compliance to the regulatory requirements by the local building

official of the locality;
(c) Compliance to the rules and regulations of the Locality where

these are located for zoning or other urban planning regulations;
and
(d) Compliance to the requirement of the Local Power Utility

cooperative.
ii. Technical Aspects
(a) On the Applicable General Lighting Load. Church and

Chapels shall be illuminated to a value of eight (8) volt-ampere
per square meter of floor area. This is to make an ambiance
treatment of sacredness of the place for gathering. It is
recommended that indirect lighting to be utilized for this
purpose. The use of warm white illuminating fixtures or a value
of 150 lux as illumination level is recommended for general
application. All other areas of utilization like rectories,
dormitories, offices and hallways shall have a twenty-four (24)
volt-amperes of general lighting per square meter of floor area.
This, however, may be increased on focal points like rostrums
for Lectors and the altar proper for lighting emphasis. Lighting
circuitry shall be distributed in a manner where the aggregate
kilowatt load in the wiring system is loaded at a maximum of
eighty (80) percent of its allowable ampacity of the feeder wire
in use. Over running or extension of lighting circuits is allowed
provided the voltage drop at the furthest fixture shall be limited
to a maximum of three (3%) percent or a net voltage of 223 volts
at its terminal point. Public safety from over extension is still a
priority concern. Materials for wiring of Lighting System shall be
brand new and conform to Philippine Standards, U.S.
Underwriters Laboratories Inc. and of approved type for its
location and purpose.
(b) On the Applicable Locations of Light Controller Switches.

All switches in the churches and other assembly places shall be
located on a readily accessible and manageable point like the
sacristy for load management aspect. This is done by the
application of the switch bank concept. Scattering of switches is
not recommended for security reason. For other utilization like
dormitories, offices, small rectory areas, etc., the normal
location of switches at door entranceway is recommended.
(c) On the Utilization of Air Ventilating Equipment. The use of

electric fans is recommended in churches. However, proper
selection of equipment specification shall be reviewed prior to
installation. Wall mounted electric fans shall be located where
they shall not be obstructive to curtains and other draperies for
probable malfunction and overheating. It is recommended that
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ceiling fans be connected on surface-mounted wiring devices
from an exclusive home run circuit for easy management,
monitoring and maintenance.
(d) On Other Protective Equipment. It is recommended that

emergency lights of two (2) bulbs, 220 volts, chargeable type be
installed on entranceways of churches, on hallways, stairways,
rectories etc. or places where converging of people is high for
convenience and safety of persons in the area in case of
malfunction of normal power supply. The altar section is a
priority for this emergency lights. These emergency lights shall
be likewise linked to manual transfer switches for access to
emergency power supply (generator sets) whenever a failure in
normal power supply occurs.
(e) On the Methodology of Wiring. Wiring shall be on standard

raceway system. Churches and other buildings of high historical
values shall not be pierced or chipped when raceways are
introduced. Open conduit system and surface-mounted boxes
shall instead be applied with the best workmanship. Only
conduits of approved trade sizes shall be used. This shall be
coordinated with the Project Architect for guidance to
workmanship.
(f) On the Use of Convenience Receptacle Outlets.

Convenience outlets on churches shall be confined only on
areas where immediate utilization on religious occasions is
needed like amplifiers, choir equipment, altar outlets and at the
sacristy area only. The use of whether proof type shall be
installed on identified damp locations and was necessary on
outdoor needs. These outlets shall be so connected exclusively
to the operational both from normal and emergency power
supplies. Special purpose outlets for the use on amplifiers and
other altar equipment shall be wired exclusively as special
circuits.
(g) On the Protective Devices. Protective devices refer to

necessary equipment that activate in cases of surge
occurrences like over current (overloading) in the downstream
circuitry, short circuiting of wires, and other phenomenon
beyond the normal specified nature of operation of a typical
electrical system. Protective devices come in the form of fuses
with a melting element or circuit breakers with automatic
mechanical spring action in cases of high temperature
occurrences on any circuits. These circuit breakers are bundled
in group thru an enclosure commonly known as panel board.
These panel boards shall be located on accessible locations for
easy operation by anybody anytime. It is recommended that this
be located at the back of the altar or sacristy. The provision for
fire safety equipment, like fire extinguishers, shall always be
available and accessible beside the Panel boards. The need for
fire alarm bells and manual pull stations, annunciations, smoke
and heat detectors may be installed subject to the nature of
building structure and duly recommended by fire prevention
authorities or architect.
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(h) On Grounding System. All non-current carrying materials like
power box enclosure, air-cons, water pumps, audio amplifiers
and other power loads and convenience outlet be installed with
solid grounding wire (normally a green wire) run directly to the
bus terminal of panel boards to prevent entry of surge current in
the electrical system and provide high efficiency of operation of
electrical equipment.
(i) On the Installation of Surge Protection Equipment. By the

physical set-up of churches, massive and high elevation, they
may be subjected to surge currents emanating from lightning
strokes. Some areas in the diocese experience high occurrence
of lightning strikes annually. Hence, it is recommended that
overhead lightning mast rods be installed and connected with a
solid grounding wire directly terminating to a ground rod. This
shall provide a direct path of release of lightning surge currents
to the earth and prevent circulation of this surge current in the
electrical system.
(j) Other Aspects. It is recommended that all electrical systems

whether of indoor or outdoor installation be subjected to annual
inspection to verify their relative integrity and safety. Only
qualified and experienced Registered Electrical Engineers and
Master Electricians are allowed to execute and/ or supervise
this activity. Whenever necessary for accounting of periodic
energy consumption, metering of different areas or buildings in
either the standard utility metering or a localized metering shall
be allowed, provided only one (1) service entrance feeder shall
be installed.
(k) Electrical Documentary Requirement. All proposed electrical

activities in the form of new construction, renovation, upgrading
and others should be guided electrical plans with the following
information therein:
1. Lightning and power layout plan, with the location of

service entrance and protective device indicated
2. Load schedule and computations
3. Power riser diagram
4. Legend and symbols duly signed and sealed by a
Licensed Professional Electrical Engineer
These plans shall be supported by electrical cost estimates and

shall be coordinated with the project architect to coincide with
the architectural perspective and other relevant trade and
aesthetic aspects of the project.
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C. DIOCESAN CEMETERY POLICIES
4. General Policies
c. Owned by the Roman Catholic Bishop of Legazpi Incorporated, every catholic

cemetery is under the management of the Diocesan Commission on Temporalities.
Thus, any development in the cemetery shall be supervised by the Commission.
d. To maintain good system in managing the cemeteries, the following rules shall be
implemented and observed.
i. All cemetery transactions must be properly done through the parish

office.
ii. Uniformity of contract must be observed. Only contracts signed by the

Chairman of the Commission shall be honored.
iii. Cemetery lots can be leased for burial up to five (5) years and be
renewed for another five (5) years. At the end of the ten (10)-year
contract, the lessee shall pay for the exhumation, regulatory fees, and
charges on surrender of the same, subject to the adjustment of the
percentage increase and value of peso.
iv. Should the lessee decide to transfer the remains to an individual

ossuary, he shall notify the parish fifteen (15) days before the
termination of the contract of lease; otherwise, the remains subject of
contract shall be transferred to the common ossuary without further
notice.
v. Construction or installation of the following is strictly prohibited: two-

storey structures, fences, markers, concrete benches, monuments,
emblems, headstones, inscriptions, statues, and further improvements
shall not be allowed either in contract of lease or of perpetual use.
vi. Claims for lots for perpetual use before must be supported by some
proofs, such as receipts, contracts, or record in the parish office.
vii. Grantees of perpetual lot contracts previously entered into shall pay a
maintenance fee every time they use their lots for burial.
viii. Existing improvement on perpetual use awardees and leases shall be

subject to valuation according to each net book value at the time of the
termination of contract.
5. Operational Policies
f. The person in charge of running the cemetery operations is the Chair of the
Diocesan Commission on Temporalities, assisted by delegated priests and lay
members of the Commission. In the parish, supervisor will handle the
operations, with the help of the sepulturero. The delegated priests and lay
coordinators shall help in monitoring whether the policies are being properly
implemented.
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g. Parishes are required to have a Supervisor who will take care of all records
and monitor the sepulturero. Each cemetery must have one sepulturero who
will take care of the cemetery.
h. The Commission takes charge of the construction of niches and ossuaries and
of other developments in the cemeteries; with proper coordination with the
parish priests.
i. Every parish must have a separate account for the cemetery income. All
cemetery transactions and payments must be done in the parish office.
j. At the end of the month the net income shall be shared between the parish and
the diocese. The sharing of the Net Receipts (Cash Receipts less Expenses)
shall be: 35% Parish Evangelization Fund; 32.5% Parish General Fund; and
32.5% Diocesan Share.
k. A master plan, documentation, reviews, and mapping for every cemetery is

required.
l. A quarterly monitoring and evaluation must be done, possibly during vicarial

meetings. Constant auditing is needed to ensure that the cemetery records and
reports are properly observed, and problems encountered are given solutions.
m. Monthly reports and remittances are to be submitted to the chancery every first
week of the month.
D. POLICIES FOR PARISH PERSONNEL
1. Classification of Employees
Parish employees may be classified as Office and Pastoral Personnel, Church

Premises Personnel, and Rectory Personnel.
a. The basic positions of Office Personnel include the Parish Secretary, Clerk
(Escribiente), and Cashier. The parish need not hire its own Bookkeeper as
the diocese assigns and rotates Bookkeepers to all parishes. Pastoral
Personnel such as Lay Missionaries, Catechists, and Social Workers who are
hired to do full-time work are included in this classification.
b. The Church Premises Personnel include the Sacristan Mayor, Maintenance,

and Utility Man/Janitor.
c. The Rectory Personnel include the Driver, Housekeeper/Cook, and

Laundress.
Multi-Task. In most parishes, the responsibilities of different job positions are

performed by one person.
Example: The responsibilities of the secretary and cashier are performed by one
person. The following guidelines may assist in classifying such positions appropriately.
a. If the major responsibilities performed in one job position clearly predominate,

the employee belongs to that job position. From the above example, if the
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major duties performed are mostly secretarial and a few times spend as a
cashier, the appropriate job title is Secretary.
b. If no area predominates, she/he belongs to the job position which covers the
higher-level work performed for a significant portion of time. Example: If an
employee spends almost equal time as sacristan mayor (Job Level 2) and
janitor (Job Level 1), she/he will be classified under Job Level 2.
2. Types of Employment
a. Regular Employee. “An employment shall be deemed to be regular where the

employee has been engaged to perform activities which are usually necessary
or desirable in the usual business or trade of the employer… Except where the
employment has been fixed for specific project… or where the work or services
to be performed is seasonal in nature...” (Labor Code, Article 280).
Moreover, when the employee occupies regular plantilla position, the

employment is regular. In almost all parishes, the following are the
benchmarked positions.
Office Personnel
i. Parish Secretary 1
ii. Parish Secretary 2
iii. Parish Cashier/Bookkeeper (retainer or part-time)
Pastoral Personnel
i. Pastoral Worker
ii. BEC Worker
iii. Hired Catechist
Church Premises Personnel

i. Sacristan Mayor
ii. Sacristan 2
iii. Maintenance
iv. Utility Man/Janitor
All newly hired employees will undergo a probationary status to determine

fitness, efficiency, and qualification for a regular, plantilla employment. The
probationary or trial period should not exceed six (6) months from the date of
employment except when both parties agree on a shorter or longer period.
Employees under regular employment are accorded with security of tenure by

law and may not be separated except for a just or authorized cause provided
by law and after due process. Hence, the tenure of a regular employee shall
not be affected by the movement of Pastor or Parish Administrator.
“No relative policy” shall apply in hiring new parish personnel from henceforth.
b. Domestic Employment. The Labor Code of the Philippines defines a

domestic employee as “any person who renders services in and about the
employer’s home and whose services are usually necessary or desirable for
the maintenance and enjoyment thereof, and ministers to the personal comfort
and enjoyment of the employer’s family” (Omnibus Rules Implementing the
Labor Code, Rule 13 - Employment of House Helpers, Section 1b; LCP
Chapter 3, Article 141).
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i. Rectory Personnel such as the Driver, Housekeeper, Cook, Laundress
and persons in the personal service of the priests would ordinarily be
considered as domestic employees.
ii. Rectory personnel shall be paid a wage rate as prescribed by law; and
may be given free lodging, food, and medical assistance. They shall
also be covered by the SSS and all benefits mandated by law. (Cf. LCP,
Chapter III, Articles 142-148).
iii. Due to the nature of work of domestic employees, they do not observe
a definite official time. They observe a day-off weekly as approved by
the Pastor or Parish Administrator.
iv. As a general rule, there shall be no coterminous employment. All

diocesan clergy, when given a new parish assignment shall not
terminate the employment of his rectory personnel from the parish he
is about to leave behind, nor shall he terminate any previously
employed rectory personnel in his new assignment, except when there
is sufficient ground for termination. The Diocesan Human Resource
Sub-Commission shall be informed in writing in advance of any plan for
termination of personnel, for review and assistance.
c. Project-Based Employment. The period of employment of a project-based

employee has been fixed for specific project or phase thereof as specified by
the contract. The completion or termination of which should be predetermined
on the date of hiring.
3. Recruitment, Selection, and Hiring for Regular Plantilla Positions
Only qualified candidates are considered for hiring. Qualification guide for the position
being applied for is enumerated in the job description.
a. Application Standard
Hiring shall be in accordance with the manpower plans (plantilla) of the Parish.
All applicants are required to complete a standard application form.
The following qualifications shall be considered in recruiting, hiring, and

maintaining of personnel:
i. Catholic in faith and deed;
ii. Aptitude for the position as determined by appropriate tests and

screening methods;
iii. Educational attainment in relation to requirements of the position;
iv. Physical fitness as certified by a duly accredited hospital by the

diocese;
v. Psychological fitness as certified by a duly accredited psychologist by

the diocese; and
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vi. Not related—by consanguinity or affinity within the 4th degree—to the
Pastor or Parish Administrator or to any parish employee (no relative
policy). This policy shall apply to all parish personnel.
Relationship by consanguinity – Refers to parent, child (1st degree),

sibling, grandparent, grandchild (2nd degree), aunt/uncle,
niece/nephew (3rd degree), first cousin or sibling’s child,
grandniece/nephew (4th degree).
Relationship by affinity – Refers to the relatives of the spouse;

includes “step” parent/sibling and “half” sibling.
Marriage between employees – An employee is not prohibited from

marrying a co-employee but the Pastor or Parish Administrator is given
the discretion to transfer either one of them to another parish at the
earliest possible time.
b. Recruitment and Hiring Standard
i. Recruitment is done at the parish level.
ii. Applicant submits to the Pastor or Parish Administrator an application

form.
iii. Initial interview of applicant is conducted by the Pastor or Parish

Administrator.
iv. Applicants should undergo a standard examination. The standard

examination includes a clinical interview, psychological test,
intelligence test and personality test. However, the Pastor or Parish
Administrator will be given the option to defer the intelligence and
personality tests to applicants for maintenance and janitorial positions.
v. Results of examinations are forwarded to the Pastor or Parish

Administrator for final interview and hiring.
c. Requirements for Submission Prior to Hiring
i. Baptismal certificate issued by the Roman Catholic Church

ii. Marriage contract issued by the Roman Catholic Church (if married)
iii. Two pieces 2’x2’ colored pictures
iv. “Fit to work” medical certificate from hospital/clinic
v. SSS Form E-1 or ID, TIN, Pag-IBIG No.
vi. Transcript of Records and Diploma (original and copy)
vii. NBI or Police Clearance or Barangay Clearance
viii. Certificate of Employment (if previously employed)
ix. Drug test result may be required
d. Employment Contract upon Hiring
i. The employment contract is prepared indicating the status of

employment (probationary or project-based). Other conditions in the
employment are likewise indicated such as salary, benefits and
immediate supervisor.
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ii. Before hiring is completed, the applicant shall be informed about the
terms of employment such as:
(a) Job title and job description

(b) Performance standards
(c) Starting salary
(d) Work schedule
(e) Conditions of employment
(f) Personnel policies
iii. An employment contract which contains the terms of employment as

previously explained to the applicant shall be signed by the newly hired
and the Pastor or Parish Administrator, such signatures attesting to the
agreement on the above terms and conditions for employment.
Note: Employees who do not have a written contract at the time of the
approval of this Manual should be given an employment contract,
respecting the benefits they have been receiving.
e. Working Conditions and Rest Schedules
i. The normal hours of work for any regular employee shall not exceed
eight hours a day (LCP, Book Three, Chapter I, Article 83). Broken time
may be applied to complete the 8-hour work. This provision does not
apply to rectory personnel (Cf. Article 82).
ii. Every employee—regular or domestic—is entitled to a rest period (day-

off) of not less than twenty-four consecutive hours after every six
consecutive normal working days (Book Three, Chapter II, Art 91a.)
Considering the nature of work at the parish church during Sundays,
the schedule of the weekly rest day shall be agreed upon by the Pastor
or Parish Administrator and the employee (Cf. Art 91b).
4. Compensation and Benefits
“Lay persons have the right to decent remuneration appropriate to their condition so
that they are able to provide decently for their own needs and those of their family.
They also have a right for their social provision, social security, and health benefits to
be duly provided” (Canon 230 / Canon 1286, #2).
Salary is paid to employees with particular job responsibilities subject to the Minimum
Wage Order issued with finality by Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board.
a. Salary
i. Salary shall be reviewed periodically to adapt to changes in job

condition and wage rates.
ii. Employees shall be paid their salaries on the 15th and 30th days of the
month.
iii. In addition to the basic wage, the following may also be taken into
consideration in the computation of salaries: educational attainment,
years of service, meals, and lodging.
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b. Legally Required or Mandatory Benefits
i. Social Security. The Social Security Law of 1977 (R.A. 1161) provides
protection to members and their beneficiaries against the hazards of
disability, sickness, maternity, old age and death and other
contingencies resulting in loss of income or financial burden (Sec. 2).
(a) Coverage shall be compulsory upon all employees not over

sixty years old including domestic employees whose monthly
income is not less than ₱1,000.00 and their employers (Sec. 9).
(b) Effective date of coverage shall take effect on the day of

employment (Sec. 10).
(c) Benefits include monthly pension, permanent disability benefits,

funeral and death benefits, sickness, and maternity leave
benefits (Sec. 12-14; see Maternity Leave Benefits below).
(d) Employee’s contribution, based on schedule of contribution,

shall be deducted and withheld from monthly salaries (Sec. 18).
(e) Employer’s contribution, in accordance with the schedule shall

be remitted quarterly (Sec. 19).
ii. PhilHealth (The Philippine Health Insurance). The National Health

Insurance Act of 1995 ensures affordable, acceptable, quality, and
relevant health care services to members.
iii. Pag-IBIG Fund. Republic Act 7742 or The Home Development Mutual
Fund Law shall be mandatory upon all employees covered by SSS and
their employers. Pag-IBIG promotes home ownership and establishes
an adequate housing credit system for the members and provides long
and short-term loans to provide initial funds for home building or for
improvement of existing structures.
iv. Thirteenth Month Pay. Under Presidential Decree 851, all employers
are mandated to give their rank-and-file employees a 13th month pay
every calendar year.
(a) Employees who have rendered at least one year of service are
entitled to a 13th month pay equivalent to one month’s basic
salary. For those with less than one year of service, the
monetary benefit shall be in proportion to the length of time of
service.
(b) The required 13th month pay shall be paid not later than
December 24 of each year.
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v. Retirement Pay. Under Republic Act 7641, in the absence of
retirement plan or applicable agreement, the retiring employees are
entitled to a retirement pay:
(a) Employees are entitled to retirement at the age of 65 or upon

optional retirement at 60; and have served for at least five (5)
years.
(b) The retirement pay shall be equivalent to at least one-half (1/2)

month salary for every year of service, a fraction of at least six
(6) months being considered as one whole year.
(c) Half month shall mean fifteen (15) days plus one-twelfth of the
13th month pay and the cash equivalent of not more than five
days service incentive leaves.
(d) Year of service starts upon regular employment.
vi. Maternity Leave Benefits. Under Republic Act 1161 or Social Security
Law, Section 14-A, the Social Security System provides a pregnant
female employee who has paid at least three (3) monthly contributions
in the twelve-month period immediately preceding the semester of her
childbirth or miscarriage a daily maternity benefit equivalent to 100% of
her average salary credit for 60 days or 78 days in case of caesarean
delivery subject to the following conditions:
(a) She must have notified SSS thru her employer of her pregnancy
and the probable date of her childbirth;
(b) The full payment shall be advanced by the employer within 30

days from the filing of the maternity leave application; and
(c) Such leave may be taken two weeks before delivery and six
weeks after, or at the choice of the person concerned. Any
extension may be charged to outstanding vacation leave
credits.
vii. Paternity Leave. Republic Act 8187 or the Paternity Leave Act grants
all married male employees to be allowed to lend support to his
legitimate wife during her period of recovery and/or in the nursing of
their newborn child.
viii. Holiday Pay. Under the Labor Code, Book III, Chapter III, Article 94,
every employee shall be paid his regular daily wage for any unworked
regular holidays (Cf. Book III, Chapter IV, Sec 3).
The following are exempted to holiday pay (Sec. 1–b,c):
(a) Domestic employees (rectory personnel) and persons in the

personal service of priests are not entitled to a holiday pay.
(b) Due to insufficient funds, parishes regularly employing less than

ten persons may apply from DOLE an exemption to holiday pay
(Cf. Book III, Chapter III, Art. 94a).
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ix. Service Incentive Leave. Under the Labor Code, Book III, Chapter III,
Article 95, every employee who has rendered at least one year of
service shall be entitled to a yearly service leave of five days with pay.
Applicable also in cases of emergencies, fortuitous events or
personal/domestic needs requiring urgent presence of the employee.
(a) Service incentive leave is not applicable to those already

enjoying at least five (5) days of vacation leave with pay (Art.
95b).
(b) At the end of the year, unused service incentive leave is

convertible into cash of not more than five days (Book III, Rule
V, Sec. 4).
(c) Leave requests should be reviewed and approved by the Pastor

or Parish Administrator in advance for service leave/vacation;
and after the fact for emergencies and sudden illness.
c. Other Parish-Based Benefits
In addition to the legally mandated benefits, parishes ought to provide their

regular employees with other benefits, incentives and financial assistance in
order to help them and their dependents in their economic and other living
needs.
i. Sick Leave. Five days sick leave with pay.
ii. Bereavement Leave. All employees are entitled to three (3) days of
bereavement leave with pay in case of death of immediate members of
the family.
(a) For single employee, immediate family members include

parents, brothers, and sisters.
(b) For a married employee, immediate family members include

parents, brothers and sisters, spouse, children, and parents-in-
law.
Note: Upon the discretion of the Pastor or Parish Administrator, the 5-days sick
leave and 3-days bereavement leave may not be applied if employees are
already enjoying at least 12 days of vacation leave.
iii. Unpaid Leave Benefits. All approved leaves not specified in the above
shall be considered without pay. This could be for a number of reasons
including:
(a) Education and medical needs of the employee himself/herself;

or
(b) Family reasons (if married, family refers to spouse and children;
if single, family refers to parents and siblings).
Note: On a case to case basis, an employee may be granted a leave without

pay for a maximum of three (3) months. If a leave of absence is approved by
the Pastor or Parish Administrator, all terms of the leave should be clearly
88
defined in writing including its length, effects on service years for prolonged
leaves, and benefits continuation.
Failure of an employee to report for work upon the expiration of the approved
leave without pay can be a ground for the imposition of a disciplinary action as
prescribed in the Code of Discipline for Parish Personnel, including termination
of employment.
iv. Spiritual Activities. Parishes foster Christian values by providing their

employees an annual recollection and retreat.
v. Professional Development and Employee Training. Development or

training must be a job-related and approved by the Pastor or Parish
Administrator.
5. Performance Appraisal
Effective performance appraisal can help individuals and systems change and grow.
An effective appraisal system can produce many results, some very tangible, others
which are less tangible, but all positively affecting the climate of the workplace and the
behaviors of the employees.
6. Communication and Conflict Resolution
It is recommended that employees with work-related issues or problems which cannot

be resolved in the parish level should consult the Diocesan Sub-Commission on
Human Resource.
7. Discipline and Termination of Employment
a. Discipline
The Parish expects all its employees to observe discipline in their daily
attendance to their jobs and interaction with co-workers and parishioners.
Discipline is the employer’s action against an employee or group of employees
for violating the Parish Personnel Handbook and Code of Discipline for Parish
Personnel and other applicable laws, regulations and policies.
Primarily, the purpose of discipline is to correct undesirable behavior of

employees and to teach others not to commit similar offenses. The
enforcement of disciplinary measures should not be done in retribution or
vengeance but merely to remind and forewarn an employee to perform his/her
functions in the prescribed manner and conduct. Disciplinary measures are to
be assessed for unacceptable conduct in a consistent and fair manner.
The disciplinary measures that may be taken against erring employees are
written reprimand, suspension or dismissal. When appropriate, progressive
discipline will be followed: verbal warning should precede written warning,
written warning should precede suspension, and suspension should precede
dismissal. However, this rule depends upon the nature of the offense. Serious
offenses may result in immediate suspension or dismissal for the first offense.
If an employee committed more than two different offenses, the stiffer penalty
shall be applied.
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In all violations that may be committed by an employee, the two-notice rule
must be served.
The first column in the following table is the list of unacceptable behavior or
performance but is not an all-inclusive list. The rest of the column are the
disciplinary actions to be taken corresponding to the offense/violation
committed.
Legend of disciplinary action:
1= written reprimand
2= 5 work days suspension
3= 15 calendar days suspension
4= 30 calendar days suspension
5= dismissal
*2-5/3-5 = disciplinary action will depend on the gravity of the offense

as determined in the findings
*Cumulative within a period of one year
1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th

Offense/Violation Committed O f f e n s e
Paglabag na Nagawa
Disciplinary Action
LCP Article 282(a)—Serious misconduct.
Malubha at sadyang maling pag-aasal.
1. Disorderly and disrespectful conduct.
Kabastusan o di paggalang sa
nakatataas/kapwa manggagawa.
2. Immorality. Illicit affairs. Scandalous or
indecent conduct.
Immoralidad. Pakikiapid. Mahalay o
malaswang pagkilos.
3. Defamation-Includes use of profane
language. Rumor-mongering: prying or
meddling into private lives; giving
spreading malicious information.
Pagmumura; paninirang-puri. Tsismis,
panghihimasok sa pribadong buhay ng
iba, o pagsiwalat o pagkalat ng
malisyosong paratang sa ibang tao.
4. Assault-Physical attack, inflicting injury to
another person; or initiating and getting
involved in fight on parish property or
during official function.
Pag-atake, pakikipag-away o pananakit
sa kapwa, paguudyok o pakikiisa sa gulo
sa loob o paligid ng parokya o sa opisyal
na gawain.
5. Drunken behavior within the premises
and during parish activity.
Pagkalasing sa loob ng parokya at sa
mga panahon ng opisyal na aktibidad ng
parokya.
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6. Unathorized possession of firearms
and/or deadly weapon/s within parish
premises.
Walang pahintulot na pagbitbit ng baril o
ng anumang bagay na nakakamatay sa
loob ng parokya.
7. Possession or taking of or being under
the influence of prohibited drugs.
Pagdala, paggamit o nasa impluwensya
ng pinagbabawal na gamot habang nasa
trabaho.
8. Gambling or taking part in any game of
chance within the premises.
Pagsusugal o paglalaro ng anumang uri
ng sugal sa parokya.
9. Sexual Harassment (R.A. 7877).
10. Pornography-viewing, showing,
exhibiting pornographic materials,
pictures, videos, websites, and
cellphones.
Pagtingin o pagpapakita ng mahahalay o
malalaswang babasahin, larawan,
videos, websites, at cellphones.
LCP Article 282 (a)—Insubordination.
Anumang tahasan o sadyang pagsuway.
11. Any act of willful disobedience or refusal
to follow work-related legitimate order of
the Pastor or Parish Administrator or his
representative.
Tahasang pagsuay, o hindi pagsunod sa
lehitimong patakaran o makatarungang
utos ng kura paroko o ng kanyang
inatasan.
12. Failure to punch time card or record
entry in the logbook as required.
Hindi pagtala ng oras ng pagdating o
pag-alis sa parokya.
13. Failure to wear prescribed uniform.
Hindi pagsuot ng nakatakdang uniporme.
14. Wearing inappropriate attire during office
hours and/or during official functions.
Hindi angkop o marapat na pananamit sa
araw ng trabaho o sa opisyal na gawain.
15. Failure to attend parish meetings or
activities without valid reason.
Pagliban o hindi pagdalo sa mga pulong
o mga parish activities o gawain nang
walang sapat na kadahilanan.
16. Non-observance of signs and
restrictions—such as no smoking.
Paglabag o di pagsunod sa mga
alituntuning nakapaskil.
17. Unauthorized posting or removal of signs
and bulletin.
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Walang pahintulot na pagpaskil o
pagtanggal ng mga lathalain.
18. Non-observance of sanitary and security
practices – spitting, urinating of
defecating outside of places provided by
the purpose.
Pagwawalang bahala sa tamang gawi
ukol sa kalinisan, kalusugan at
kaligtasan.
LCP Article 282 (b)—
Gross and/or habitual neglect of duties
Garapal at/o madalas na pagpapabaya sa
trabaho.
19. Gross neglect of duties (including leaving
workplace) that may result to major
damage.
Garapal na pagpapabaya sa trabaho
(halimbawa: ang pag-alis sa pwesto) na
maaaring magdulot na malaking pinsala.
20. Habitual neglect of duties (including
leaving workplace) that may result to
minor damage.
Madalas na pagpapabaya sa trabaho
(halimbawa: ang pag-alis sa pwesto) na
maaaring makapagdulot ng perwisyo.
21. Habitual tardiness and/or undertime –
Four times (4x) late and/or undertime
within a month.
Pagpasok ng huli sa tinakdang oras at/o
pag-alis ng mas maaga sa tinakdang
pag-uwi nang apat na beses sa loob ng
isang buwan.
22. Absences without approved leave notice
for ten working days or less.
Pagliban o hindi pagpasok – na hindi
hihigit ng sampung araw – gayung
walang pahintulot o pasabi.
23. Absences without approved leave of
notice for more than ten working days.
Hindi pagpasok – na higit pa sa
sampung araw – gayung walang
pahintulot o pasabi.
24. Failure to report for work after an official
leave/abandonment of work.
Hindi pagbalik sa trabaho pagkaraan ng
“official leave.”
LCP Art. 282 (c)—
Any act of forgery and fraud.
Panloloko o pandaraya.
25. Falsification and tampering of parish
records.
Pamemeke ng mga talaan ng parokya.
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26. Malicious entry in the time card/logbook
performed by himself or with a co-
employee. (Both shall be liable.)
Pandaraya sa pagtala ng oras ng
empleyado mismo o ng kapwa
empleyado.
27. Theft.
Pagnakaw o pangungupit; pagkuha ng
gamit ng parokya o personal na ari-arian
ng ibang tao na walang pahintulot mula
sa may-ari.
LCP Article 282 (c)—Willful breach by the
employee of the trust reposed in him by
his employer or duly authorized
representative.
Sadyang pagyurak o pagsira ng empleyado
sa tiwala ng kura o ng kanyang kinatawan.
28. Dishonesty/Untruthful.
Pagsisinungaling o pagtatago ng
katotohanan.
29. Dishonesty in the use of official time –
Performing personal matter or unofficial
task during official time without
permission from the parist priest.
(Examples: playing computer games,
sleeping and watching TV, telebabad or
unnecessary use of mobile phones
during office hours; being idle).
Paggamit ng opisyal na oras ng trabaho
para sa personal na gawain.
30. Divulging or disclosing confidential
Church records, information or matters to
unauthorized persons.
Paglalabas ng dokumento ng simbahan
o pagsisiwalat ng maseselang
impormasyon.
31. Unauthorized use, misuse or taking out
of parish materials, office supplies or
equipment including access to Internet.
Walang pahintulot o maling paggamit ng
mga bagay na pag-aari ng parokya.
32. Unauthorized “business” and solicitation;
using status as church personnel for self-
serving interests such as selling goods,
borrowing or lending money to
parishioners; asking too personal favors.
Pagkakaroon ng sariling negosyo at
pagtitinda sa oras ng trabaho ng walang
pahintulot. Paggamit ng posisyon para
makapagbenta, mangutang o
magpautang sa mga parokyano;
paghingi ng napakapersonal na bagay.
33. Bribery, extortion and other offenses
involving graft and corruption.
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Paghingi o pagtanggap ng suhol;
katiwalian. Paggamit ng posisyon para
sa pansariling kapakanan.
Panghuhuthot.
34. Malversation of funds including
swindling, unauthorized collections, and
non-remittance of collections from parish
activities.
Panlulustay, pagwawaldas ng koleksyon
o pondo, paniningil ng walang pahintulot,
at hindi pag-remit ng koleksyon.
LCP Art. 282 (d)—Commission of a crime
or offense by the employee against the
person of his/her employer or any
immediate member of his family or his
duly authorized representative.
35. Crime or offense against priests and their
relatives, co-workers or parishioners;
against children, senior citizens, persons
with disabilities or differently able, etc.
Krimen laban sa kaninuman.
36. In addition to the cases established in
this manual, the violation of the
provisions of the Code of Canon (Book
VI, Part I and II) will be applied.
b. Termination of Employment
Termination of employment involves the dismissal of an employee at the

instance of the Pastor or Parish Administrator. Employees have the right to be
protected against dismissal except for just causes and authorized causes. (Cf.
Labor Code of the Philippines, Book Six)
In all cases of termination of employment, due process shall be substantially

observed.
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8. Form Templates
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96
97
98
99
100
101
102
103
104
105
106
107
108
109
110
111
112
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DIOCESAN COMMISSION ON ECCLESIAL COMMUNITIES
A. POLICIES ON THE INTEGRATION OF ECCLESIAL MOVEMENTS

AND COMMUNITIES IN THE PARISH
Mandated by the parameters of the Diocesan Commission on Ecclesial Communities (DCEC),

Ecclesial Movements and Communities (EMCs) are movements, communities, or groups of
the faithful coming from different parishes, without a defined territory, and having a particular
charism and their own regulations outside of the existing parish structures.
9. Composition and Membership
The following are the recognized EMCs in the Diocese of Legazpi:
a. The Philippine Foundation of the Brotherhood of Christian Businessmen

and Professionals (BCBP) is a community of like-minded Christian
businessmen and professionals who have consciously decided to band
together to bring about the transformation of the marketplace. To accomplish
this vision, they aim to bring into their community men and women of significant
influence in business and in the professions who together will be the
instruments of Christ in the business milieu. This requires from every BCBP
member an on-going personal conversion together with a commitment to the
practice of Christian values in the workplace. Thus, to win the marketplace for
Christ means the radical change in the value system of business to one that is
based on genuine and sustainable Christ-centric business tenets of steward
leadership, justice and integrity, and professional excellence.
b. The Charismatic Renewal Movement is a spiritual movement that focuses on

a deep relationship with the Holy Spirit, highlighting the many “charisms” that
are given to Catholics through the sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation.
The movement as it exists today is the outgrowth from a retreat held in
February 1967 of several faculty members and students from Duquesne
University. Many of the students—though not all—experienced a movement of
God’s Spirit called being “baptized in the Holy Spirit.” The professors had
previously been “baptized in the Spirit” a week or two before. God’s action was
also prepared for in a very human way by the students’ prayerful preparation
in reading the Acts of the Apostles and a book entitled The Cross and the
Switchblade.
c. Couples for Christ (CFC) is an international Catholic lay ecclesial movement

whose goal is to renew and strengthen Christian values. The organization,
recognized by the Pontifical Council for the Laity, is led by an International
Council, which operates in the Philippines under the Catholic Bishops'
Conference of the Philippines and has acquired direct rapports with the
Vatican. The community consists of family ministries, social arms, and pro-life
ministries. CFC became part of the evangelization of the Diocese of Legazpi
when its leaders in Camarines Sur came to Albay in 1991 to begin their
Christian Life Program, a weekly seminar series, at the St. Gregory the Great
Cathedral.
d. The Divine Mercy: Third Millennium Apostolate of the Philippines, Inc.,

also known as Divine Mercy Apostolate of the Philippines, DMTMAP, DMAP,
and DMA, a registered foundation in 1988, has since developed nationwide
into several communities and movements, drawing and sharing the charism
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from the One Source, the Blood and Water gushing from the pierced heart of
Jesus Christ. They promote the Divine Mercy message through a
comprehensive formation program of 100 weeks modules.
e. El Shaddai DWXI Prayer Partners Fellowship International, also known as

El Shaddai (‫י ַׁדש לֵ א‬,
ַׁ Hebrew for “God Almighty”) is a Catholic charismatic
movement in the Philippines whose vision is to reach out to all corners of the
country as well as other parts of the world with the Word of God to unite all the
People of God.
f. The Light of Jesus Family (LOJ) is a religious community that gathers weekly
in different locations across the Philippines and around the world for The Feast,
a Sunday prayer gathering that includes the celebration of the Holy Eucharist,
lively worship, and series of talks on practical Christian living.
g. The Missionary Families of Christ (MFC), formerly Couples for Christ

Foundation for Family and Life (CFC-FFL), is a Philippine-based Catholic
charismatic lay community that emphasizes individual renewal, family life
renewal, Church renewal, societal renewal, and evangelization. MFC is a
missionary body, and the families and individuals that make up this association
are to strive to be instruments of the Holy Spirit in renewing the face of the
earth.
h. The Neocatechumenal Way (NCW), also known as the Neocatechumenate

and The Way, is at the service of bishops and pastors as an itinerary of
rediscovery of Baptism and ongoing formation in the faith, and it is proposed
to the faithful who wish to rekindle in their lives the richness of the Christian
initiation. The Way—whose itinerary is lived in the parishes, in small
communities made up of people from different age and social groups—
gradually leads the faithful to intimacy with Jesus Christ and transforms them
into active members in the Church and credible witnesses of the Good News.
It is an instrument for the Christian initiation of adults preparing to receive
baptism.
i. The Tulay Kalinga ng Panginoon (TKP), a community of believers of the

teachings of Our Lord Jesus Christ, is a duly recognized Catholic charismatic
community in the Diocese of Legazpi. They gather regularly for the celebration
of the Holy Eucharist, religious devotions, prayer meetings, recollections and
retreats, and assemblies. The community also aims to strengthen their
Christian faith through works of charity, which leads one to an experience of
God’s unfailing goodness and mercy. Thus, they serve as a bridge to channel
blessings to less fortunate brothers and sisters through their various
apostolates, such as extending help to victims of natural calamities, feeding
program for children of indigent families, providing financial assistance to
charities and to persons with special needs, sponsorship of mass weddings,
prison visitation and evangelization, and the conduct of Christian Life Program
(CLP) and Life in the Spirit Seminar (LSS).
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10. EMC Core Team
The following are the officers of the EMC Core Team and their functions. Each officer
serves a term of three (3) years.
a. The Coordinator represents the EMCs in the Parish Commission on Ecclesial

Communities (PCEC); calls and facilitates meetings among EMCs.
b. The Secretary records minutes of meetings; prepares communications to

EMCs; maintains a database of members at the PPC Secretariat Office.
c. Heads of EMCs represent their respective movement or community.
11. EMC Integration in the Parish
a. EMCs who would like to share their charism or apostolate in the parish should
seek the permission from their Diocesan Spiritual Director and the approval of
the Parish Priest.
b. If there is a felt need, Parish Priests are encouraged to invite EMCs.
c. If accepted, the Parish Priest shall endorse the EMC to the PCEC for
orientation and membership.
d. Regular activities of EMCs should be part of the calendar of activities of the

PPC.
e. Multiple memberships of parishioners in EMCs are discouraged.
f. Evangelization and/or recruitment of EMCs should be for those who are not yet
members of any organization in the parish.
g. Any activity conducted to the barangay/sitio should first be coordinated with

the concerned BPC.
12. Towards Common Formation and Other Activities
a. EMCs may organize common formation activities in parishes, similar to the

annual diocesan Pentecost celebration, and other activities, to be endorsed by
the PCEC to the Parish Priest for approval.
b. EMCs are enjoined to participate in common parish formation activities.
c. Individual EMC members are encouraged to join their Parish Mission Team
and share their gifts in building and sustaining Saradit na Komunidad nin
Pagtubod (SAKOP).
B. POLICIES ON PASTORAL WORKERS
1. General Description
Pastoral Workers are lay persons who work in full capacity, either full-time or part-time,
in assisting Pastors, Parish Administrators, and the Commission on Ecclesial
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Communities in the mission of building and sustaining the communion of the faithful
into life-giving communities.
2. Scope of Work
a. Diocesan Pastoral Workers are full-time workers whose task is to serve the
needs of the Diocesan Ecclesial Communities Commission in collaboration
with Diocesan SAKOP Mission Team and EMC Core Team. Their specific
tasks are the following:
i. To serve as bridge in identifying the needs of Ecclesial Communities

and help in conceptualizing appropriate interventions.
ii. To serve as head of the DCEC Secretariat.
iii. Conduct regular monitoring of PCECs through the VCECs, consolidate
results, and submit a report of those to the DCEC EXECOM.
iv. Monitoring and mentoring of Parish Pastoral Workers.
v. Module formulation, and facilitation of training and formation.
b. Vicarial Pastoral Workers are full-time or part-time workers whose task is to

serve the needs of the Vicarial Ecclesial Communities Commission in
collaboration with the Vicarial Formation Team. S/he may come from the Parish
Pastoral Workers under his/her respective vicariate. Their specific tasks are
the following:
i. To serve as bridge in identifying the needs of Ecclesial Communities

and help in conceptualizing appropriate interventions.
ii. Conduct regular monitoring of PCECs, consolidate results of the
monitoring, and submit a report of those to the VCEC and DCEC
Secretariat.
c. Parish Pastoral Workers are full-time or part-time workers whose task is to

serve the needs of the Parish Commission on Ecclesial Communities and other
parish commissions that will be determined by the Parish Priest. His/her work
is confined to a parish. Any extension of services to external bodies/parishes
should be decided upon by the Parish Priest but should not in any way be
detrimental to his/her function. Their specific tasks are the following:
i. Form, organize, monitor, and sustain Barangay and Sitio Pastoral

Councils.
ii. Serve an oversight function and mentoring to Parish Mission Team.
iii. Coordinates with PPC commission heads and link their services or
activities to BPCs/SPCs.
iv. Serve as secretariat of PCEC and caretaker of PCEC office.
v. Assist the clergy in their concerns with BPC/SPC or the community.
vi. Submit reports to PCEC.
3. Qualifications
a. Preferably a resident of the parish
*In case of unavailability of a qualified resident Pastoral Worker, the Parish

Priest may inform the Diocesan Commission on Ecclesial Communities
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(DCEC) if he has a pastoral worker of choice who is not a parishioner, or he
may seek the assistance of DCEC in looking for an available Pastoral Worker.
b. Baptized and confirmed Catholic

c. Practicing Catholic
d. Physically fit, psychologically and emotionally balanced, and morally upright
e. Must be 21-50 years old
f. If married, married in Church
g. At least high school graduate
h. Computer literate
i. If serving full-time, should not take a leadership role in any religious
organization
j. Completed prescribed training from the DCEC
4. Selection
a. The DCEC EXECOM shall decide the selection of Diocesan Pastoral Workers
from among the Pastoral Workers within the six (6) vicariates.
b. The VCEC shall decide the selection of Vicarial Pastoral Worker from among
the Parish Pastoral Workers within the vicariate.
c. The Parish Priest decides/chooses and sends names of Pastoral Workers to

the DCEC for training.
5. Compensation and Benefits
a. Full-time Pastoral Worker

i. Honorarium of not less than the minimum wage.
ii. Benefits shall be the same with the regular parish employees within the
contract period.
iii. Parish provides/shoulders training expenses with transportation and
meal allowances.
iv. Shall be provided with transportation and meal allowances as required
by the job or duty.
b. Part-time Pastoral Worker

i. Parish provides/shoulders training expenses with transportation and
meal allowances.
ii. Shall be provided with transportation and meal allowances as required
by the job or duty.
6. Subsidy
Small parishes that wish to hire pastoral workers but are limited by financial capacity
may seek assistance from the Diocesan Pastoral Council.
7. Contract
a. A contract shall be provided to Pastoral Workers to ensure continuity of work

in case the term of the Parish Priest who hired the Pastoral Worker ends before
the end of the term of the Pastoral Worker, and for the purpose of safeguarding
also the interest of the Parish.
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b. Tenure of contract is two (2) years, renewable at the discretion of the Parish
Priest and the PPC.
c. Any breach of contract that cannot be resolved within the parish may be
referred to the DCEC who will initiate a dialogue between the two parties.
Unresolved issues arising from the two parties may be referred to DCEC.
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DIOCESAN COMMISSION ON FAMILY AND LIFE
Operational Policies
The Commission on Family and Life shall generally endeavor to promote programs that safeguard
the dignity and rights of the family, strengthen family values, promote family spirituality, and
respect the spirituality of Christian marriage.
In the Diocese of Legazpi, the Commission on Family and Life specifically deals with ensuring
that families are attuned to God’s plan that seeks to safeguard the sanctity of life, marriage and
family.
The Commission’s areas of responsibility are the following: (1) Family and pastoral concern; and
(2) Issues affecting family and life, consisting of the following: sex education, pre-marital sex,
overseas Filipino workers, broken families, total population control, abortion, homosexuality,
violence against women and human trafficking and the elderly.
A. GENERAL OPERATIONAL POLICIES
1. All workers of the Diocesan Commission on Family and Life (DCFL) shall undergo the
basic orientation on Subtle Attacks against the Family Explained (SAFE) and shall also
undergo continuing spiritual enrichment.
2. The DCFL shall designate a point person for each program or project as reflected in
the DCFL’s organizational structure.
3. The DCFL shall maintain a Family and Life desk, office, or center to facilitate easy
access of its programs and projects.
4. All program and project modules shall be standardized. Each shall be designed in
consultation with concerned stakeholders, reflecting Christian values and translated in
Bikol. Based on priority needs, these programs and projects will be made available for
adoption to the Parish Commission on Family and Life (PCFL).
5. The DCFL shall monitor and evaluate all programs and projects periodically as
reflected in the five-year plan and shall report the results during the immediate
meeting.
6. The DCFL shall maintain an electronic database of all its programs and projects.
7. The DCFL shall conduct proper documentation of issues and concerns arising from
the implementation of all programs and projects.
8. The DCFL shall source its funds in addition to the financial assistance that shall be
provided by the Diocese in the implementation of its programs and projects. The DCFL
funds will be used mainly for capability building of DCFL staff, development/packaging
and training on the use of modules, and conduct of special activities as needed.
The DCFL shall be headed by the diocesan chair who is a cleric and co-chaired by a lay
couple. Members shall be composed of the clergy chairs and lay co-chair couples of the
various sub-commissions of DCFL. The same composition will be parallel at the parish level.
The DCFL Secretariat will be an arm of the DCFL Chair.
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C. FUNCTIONS OF OFFICERS AND PROGRAM HEADS
1. The Diocesan Chair shall have the following functions:

a. Oversees all programs, projects, and activities of the DCFL.
b. Schedules Commission meetings.
c. Presides the Commission meetings.
d. Guides and monitors DCFL programs, projects, and activities.
2. The Lay Co-chair Couple shall have the following functions:

a. Coordinates agenda, programs, projects, and activities of the Commission in
consultation with the Diocesan Chair.
b. Represents the commission together with the Chair at diocesan council
meetings, events, and functions where the Commission is called for, and
thereafter renders a report.
c. Recommends members on the diocesan, vicarial, parish, and barangay CFLs.

a. Chairs the DCFL Secretariat.
b. Issues notices for Commission meetings and dispatches all needed
communications.
c. Prepares the venue of the Commission meetings, inclusive of the needed
equipment and materials.
d. Takes minutes of Commission meetings and keeps all pertinent records.
e. Attends to other secretarial tasks that other Commission members may
require.

a. Keeps record of all income and expenditure of the Commission.
b. Acts as disbursing officer of the Commission with the authorization of the same,
always ready to render accounting of Commission fund.
c. Reports quarterly expenses and income.
5. The Sub-Commission Chairs shall have the following functions:

a. Calls and presides over respective Sub-commission meetings.
b. Coordinates the agenda, programs, projects, and activities of the Sub-
commission in consultation with the DCFL Chair/Co-chair Couple.
c. Consults with and reports to the DCFL Chair/Co-chair Couple regarding the
standing work and tasks assigned to the Sub-commission.
D. TENURE OF OFFICE
All officers and members of the Commission on Family and Life shall hold office for five (5)
years in the diocesan and vicarial levels, and three (3) years in the parish level. Diocesan
officers shall be appointed by the Bishop in consultation with the clergy. Members may
however be re-appointed to replace non-functional officers and members.
E. MEETINGS
1. Regular meeting of DCFL shall be held every two (2) months on the second Saturday
of the first month from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm.
2. Regular vicarial meetings shall be every month.
3. Regular Sub-commission meetings shall be held monthly, preferably on dates before
the diocesan meeting.
4. A simple majority (50% plus one) of the members of the Commission shall constitute
a quorum.
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F. PROGRAMS AND PROJECTS
1. The Institution Building and Formation Program focuses on:

a. Structural organization;
b. Monitoring and assessment of all other DCFL programs;
c. Maintaining a database of Family and Life workers in the diocesan and parish
levels;
d. Continuing formation programs for Family and Life workers;
e. Capability enhancement and team building;
f. Family formation and enrichment programs, such as parenting seminars,
family dialogue, and parent-child dialogues; and
g. Training of trainers for Natural Family Planning - Fertility Awareness (NFP-FA),
Pre-Cana and Post-Cana Seminars, Marriage Enrichment, SAFE, and
Marriage Counseling.
2. The Pre-Cana Seminar aims to prepare couples not only for their lifelong commitment
to each other, but also to help them understand their mission and responsibility as
married couples (and possibly, as future parents) under the Catholic faith. The module
covers the following topics: marriage as a sacrament, communication the role of
husband and wife, the role of the Christian family in society, human sexuality, the value
of natural family planning, and parenting. Pre-Cana speakers must be trained and
witnessing couples.
3. The Natural Family Planning - Fertility Awareness (NFP-FA) is given to couples

with emphasis on formation of attitudes, not merely the exercise of sexual intimacy.
Values to be imparted in this program shall be anchored on the teachings of Pope Paul
VI in Humanæ Vitæ. NFP-FA workers shall be couples of reproductive age who have
undergone the same seminar. The NFP-FA uses a Home-Based approach with
periodic follow-up while undertaking NFP practice until it becomes a way of life.
4. Special Programs focus on the pastoral care of families in certain irregular situations
to wit: civil marriages, trial marriages, de facto marriages, separated or divorced
persons who re-married or have not re-married. Likewise, these programs shall also
take care of families in different situations, like the elderly, families of migrant workers,
families with member who are obliged to stay away for a long period of time (military
personnel, sailors, and all kinds of itinerant workers), refugees, families in big cities
living particularly as outcasts, and those who are homeless, single parents, families
with handicapped children, and families of drug dependent persons.
5. Advocacy Programs focus on lobbying family and life issues to counter anti-life
culture and strengthen a pro-life family. Activities include organizing/leading advocacy
groups that shall address existing and potential issues that attack family and life; print,
TV, radio, and social media campaign to enhance knowledge and attitude of
parishioners towards anti-life and anti-family issues; and conduct Subtle Attacks
against the Family Explained (SAFE) seminars to parishes and communities.
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DIOCESAN COMMISSION ON YOUTH
A. DECLARATION OF PRINCIPLES AND PHILOSOPHIES
As soon as the young people will be involved in the youth ministry and be evangelized, it will
make them feel the need to journey with others who have made the same response faith: a
validation of the truth that faith, though personal, has a communitarian dimension. Through
which, we are compelled for the following principles and philosophies of development:
1. We believe that the goal of development is the improvement of the human condition
through the empowerment of young people, the development of youth’s capacity to
transform their own situation by their own means. It seeks to build a Christian
Community on the foundation of sustained pastoral efforts.
2. We affirm that holistic development though activities must start where young people
are in their level of awareness and move forward at the pace that the youth’s own pace
dictates. We must move forward not ahead of the people, not behind them, but in step
with them.
3. We assert that the young people must be the primary participants in all phases of the
development process: in identifying needs, forming plans of action, implementing
plans, and evaluating the results. The role of the pastoral worker for youth apostolate
is to facilitate the process whereby the youth acquire the skills, knowledge, attitudes
and techniques that promote their responsible participation in making them up
developed in faith, i.e., initiation, incorporation and mission.
4. We promote collaboration with all assets available in the community for our various
development activities. Moreover, we encourage the mobilization of available talents,
resources, technology, labor power and other resources. Linkages and networks are
important on realizing goals.
5. We adhere that development activities must be sensitive to the local community’s

beliefs, customs, and traditions. Development activities that disregard the people’s
culture and history are bound to fail. These activities will also be guided by the church’s
pastoral plans and be accompanied by all available conciliar documents.
6. We perceive that development is a liberating process. It must lead to young people’s

critical awareness of the forces that promote their welfare through holistic formation. It
must empower the youth to undertake transforming community actions.
7. We believe that development through implementing faith-based program is a

missionary work on evangelizing young people. Through which, this allows young
people draw closer to Christ and help them grow into responsible citizens and lead
them to be involved in the life of the community where they belong.
These philosophies of development should take place because there is a need for youth
ministry to be Christ-centered, evangelistic, participatory and communitarian and well versed
in youth culture, inter-ministerial and interdisciplinary.
B. MISSION STATEMENT AND GOALS
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1. Commission Mission Statement – Journey with the young with an integral faith
formation that they may become committed evangelizers and dynamic servant
leaders.
2. The following are the goals of the commission:
a. A diocesan commission on youth structure is established.

b. A comprehensive integrated and developmental youth formation program is
operationalized.
c. A network of campus ministry is established in CEAL and selected schools.
d. Apostolate to the community, especially to youth at risk is instituted.
C. NAME OF ORGANIZATION, NATURE & DOMICILE
1. The highest governing body of the youth ministries, youth movements and youth
organizations within the ecclesiastical territory of the Diocese of Legazpi shall be called
the Diocesan Commission on Youth (DCY).
2. The Diocesan Commission on Youth shall carry a seal to symbolize and represent the
organization. The following are explanations of each symbolism within the seal:
a. The cross represents Christ as the center of the life of the young people of the
Diocese.
b. Blue color represents the special place in the heart in the heart of the young to
remind us of Mary’s humility.
c. Human figures are the silhouette of the Youth with Christ embracing them to
follow Him in His mission.
d. Triangle shape outlines the representation of Mt. Mayon which is the

ecclesiastical seal of the Diocese of Legazpi.
e. White curving stripes summarizes the six vicariates (formerly three) in the
Diocese and the fading yellow background is the artistic design color of the
youth.
D. ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE AND FUNCTIONS AT ALL LEVELS
1. The Diocesan Commission on Youth governs the different levels of youth ministry
such as the forty-nine (49) Parish Commissions on Youth, the six (6) Vicarial
Commissions on Youth, established Campus Ministries, and other youth movements
and organizations in the diocese, also known as the Federation of Diocesan Youth
Organizations and Movements.
To further understand the levels and structures of youth ministries under the Diocesan
Commission on Youth, the following are under the said governing body and member-
organizations and movements:
e. The Diocesan Youth Council is the highest governing body of the Diocesan
Commission on Youth wherein members of this body is mandated to plan,
organize, execute, monitor plans and programs and conduct necessary
trainings and seminars to empower and evangelize young people of the
diocese in cognizance to its mission statement.
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Members of the Diocesan Youth Council are tasked to convene for a monthly
meeting to discuss plans in preparation for the forthcoming activities, address
internal issues and provide other administrative functions and support to all
levels when need arises. Likewise, it is necessary for the council to evaluate
the previous programs held and to utilize its result for the strategic planning for
the proposed programs for the coming year.
The following are members of the Diocesan Youth Council:
Diocesan Staff DCY Chair

DCY Co-Chair
DCY Assistant Chair
DCY Secretary
DCY Treasurer
Vicarial Staff VCY Chair

VCY Co-Chair
VCY Assistant Chair
VCY Secretary
Program In-Charge In-Charge, Diocesan Youth Formation Team

(Sub-Committees) In-Charge, Youth for Social Action and Communication
In-Charge, Same Sex Attraction / Courage
Director of Campus Ministry
Ex-Officio Members FDYOM Chairman

FDYOM Directors
Head, CEAL
f. Coordination among the parishes within a vicariate is established through the

Vicarial Commission on Youth (VCY).
g. The Parish Commission on Youth (PCY) coordinates all youth ministry

efforts within the Parish. Its scope is youth organizations within the parish, the
Barangay Youth Ministries and Campus Ministries.
h. The Federation of Diocesan Youth Organizations and Movements

(FDYOM) is a body composed of the different youth organizations and
movements within the ecclesiastical jurisdiction of the Diocese of Legazpi.
i. Any school with an active Catholic Campus Ministry and partakes in the
pastoral plan of the diocese in order to form a community through renewed
integral evangelization is part of the DCY.
2. To effectively cascade and carry out the pastoral plans of the Diocesan Commission
on Youth, the following team, committees, council and ministry are established to help
mainstream the programs and activities of the Diocesan Commission on Youth at all
levels to realize its goals:
a. Diocesan Youth Formation Team. This committee is primarily concerned

with the total growth of young people through holistic and integral faith
formation. Programs and activities implemented aim the youth to be
evangelized, to develop their potentials as human persons and gradually take
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leadership roles and grow into real ministers with a heart for others, especially
their fellow youth.
b. Diocesan Youth for Social Action and Communication. This committee

have been established in order to help of facilitate restore the well-being of
those youth at risk. It also welcomes young people who experience, or are
recovering from, an extraordinarily difficult situation. Under this Committee is
the Diocesan Youth Media Ministry. This ministry is mandated to bring the
Gospel through mainstream media such radio, television, newspaper and
through social network. This also aims to promote the Diocesan Commission
on Youth programs and activities and bring awareness to the people,
especially to the youth.
E. TERM OF OFFICE, TASKS, AND FUNCTIONS OF OFFICERS AND THE STAFF
1. Diocesan Youth Officers and Staff. Members of the Diocesan Youth Council are
either elected and/or appointed. The term of office of each shall last until five (5) years.
Given this, continuity must be ensured, the mechanism for which would depend on the
strategies and needs of the council. The following are the functions of each officers
and/or staff:
a. Diocesan Chair / Diocesan Youth Director
i. Spearheaded the direction and thrust of the youth ministry under the
scope of his council.
ii. Monitors the youth programs and activities within the jurisdiction of
his/her council.
iii. Convenes and preside youth meetings and/or assemblies.
iv. Links with immediate superior/s and leaders of other structures related
to the council (e.g. The Diocesan Youth Director links with the bishop
as the head of the diocese and with the Diocesan Pastoral Council and
other groups).
v. Assures that the youth ministry is in line with the larger pastoral plan
(e.g. assures that the youth ministry is in line with the Pastoral Plan).
vi. Initiates fund sourcing for youth ministry efforts under his council.
vii. Acts as adviser of the Youth Council.
viii. Represents the youth ministry under his council to youth ministry
gathering.
b. Diocesan Co-Chair / Diocesan Youth Coordinator
i. Assists and collaborates with the Youth Director and Leader in their
tasks.
ii. Oversees and supports the implementation of the council’s plans, and
plans in other levels (national, regional, diocesan, etc.)
iii. Conducts regular visits to the youth ministry structures within the scope
of the council (at all levels), to monitor implementation of youth ministry
plans, and at the same time, study the needs and concerns of young
people and of youth ministry.
iv. Serves as direct link with other structures of youth ministry.
c. Diocesan Assistant Chair / Diocesan Youth Leader
126
i. Assists and collaborate with the Youth Director and Coordinator in their
tasks.
ii. Takes responsibility in the running and implementation of the youth
ministry program and plans within his/her structure.
iii. Helps in the formational and educational programs of the ministry.
iv. Represents the youth within and for the council.
d. Diocesan Youth Secretary
i. Manages and maintains the diocesan youth office / desk.

ii. Custodian of all records and seal of the Diocesan Commission on Youth
and to keep accurate membership records.
iii. Keeps the minutes of all meetings and to record all proceedings of the
same and to render report to the Diocesan Youth Council during
monthly meetings or whenever called upon to do so.
iv. To give due notices of all meetings to all concerned persons by all
means such as through letters, text messages, social media, etc.
v. Perform other necessary tasks.
e. Diocesan Youth Treasurer
i. Custodian of all financial records of the Diocesan Commission on

Youth.
ii. Disburses funds, under the collective authorization of the Diocesan
Youth Council, in accordance with standard accounting and auditing
procedures.
iii. Collects and receives fees, contributions, donations, and all other
material resources.
2. Vicarial Commission on Youth. Members of the Vicarial Youth Council are either
elected and/or appointed. The term of office of each shall last until three (3) years.
Given this, continuity must be ensured, the mechanism for which would depend on the
strategies and needs of the council. The following are the functions of each officers
and/or staff:
a. Vicarial Chair / Vicarial Youth Director
i. Oversees and supports the implementation of the vicarial youth

council’s goals, programs and activities
ii. Supervises and assists the Campus Ministry moderator of the vicariate
relative to school and parish activities and tie-ups within his vicariate.
iii. Assists in the formational and educational needs of the parish youth
councils and schools.
iv. Facilitates with the Vicarial Youth Leader the coordination of the
parishes within his jurisdiction.
v. Represents the vicariate in the Diocesan Youth council.
vi. Conducts regular visit to the different parishes within his jurisdiction.
vii. Promotes harmonious relationship among the youth ministers in the
vicariate.
b. Vicarial Co-Chair / Vicarial Youth Coordinator
i. Initiates and coordinates all the Vicarial Youth Ministry programs and
activities.
127
ii. Assists and collaborates with the Vicarial Youth Director and Leader in
their tasks.
iii. Represents the vicariate in the Diocesan Youth council.
iv. Implements, coordinates and monitors the Vicarial Youth Council’s
goals, programs and activities.
v. Oversees and supports the implementation of the council’s plans, and
plans in vicarial level
vi. Manages and maintains the youth office of his/her particular level.
vii. Serves as direct link with other structures of youth ministry within the
vicariate.
c. Vicarial Assistant Chair / Vicarial Youth Leader
i. Initiates and coordinates all the Vicarial Youth Ministry programs and
activities.
ii. Assists and collaborates with the Vicarial Youth Director and
Coordinator in their tasks.
iii. Links the youth in the parishes within the vicariate.
iv. Responsible for the day-to-day running of the Vicarial Youth Council’s
programs and projects.
v. Assists the VYD in facilitating the coordination of the parishes within
the vicariate.
vi. Represents the vicariate in the Diocesan Youth Council.
d. Vicarial Youth Secretary
i. Manages and maintains the vicarial youth office / desk.

ii. Custodian of all records and seal of the Vicarial Commission on Youth
same and to render report to the Vicarial Commission on Youth during
means, such as through letters, text messages, social media, etc.
3. Parish Youth Officers and Staff. Members of the Parish Youth Council are either
elected and/or appointed. The term of office of each shall last until one (1) or two (2)
years depending to the situation of the parish youth structure. Given this, continuity
must be ensured, the mechanism for which would depend on the strategies and needs
of the council. The following are the functions of each officer and/or staff:
a. Parish Youth Director
i. Oversees and supports the implementation of the parish youth council’s

goals, programs and activities
ii. Supervises and assists parish activities and tie-up to other youth
organizations, movements and campus ministries within his parish
iii. Assists in the formational and educational needs of the parish youth
councils and schools.
iv. Promotes harmonious relationship among the youth ministers in the
vicariate.
b. Parish Youth Coordinator
128
i. Initiates and coordinates all the Parish Youth Ministry programs and
activities.
ii. Assists and collaborates with the Parish Youth Director and Leader in
their tasks.
iii. Represents the parish in the Vicarial Youth Council.
iv. Coordinates to the external links of the organizations such as its
collaborators.
v. Represents the youth commission in the Parish Pastoral Council.
c. Parish Youth Leader
i. Initiates and coordinates all the Parish Youth Ministry programs and
activities.
ii. Represents the parish in the Vicarial Youth Council.
iii. Implements, coordinates and monitors the Parish Youth Council’s
goals, programs and activities.
iv. Oversees and supports the implementation of the council’s plans, and
plans in the parish level.
v. Preside the organization meetings.
vi. Represents the youth commission in the Parish Pastoral Council.
d. Parish Youth Secretary
i. Manages and maintains the vicarial youth office / desk.

ii. Custodian of all records and seal of the Parish Commission on Youth
same and to render report to the Parish Commission on Youth during
means such as through letters, text messages, social media, etc.
4. Appointment or election of officer/s for necessary positions – At all levels, it is a

discretionary to each council to add another position to delegate specific task.
5. Members of the Youth Council at all levels – The council to each level may expand to
welcome membership of representatives of various youth groups present therein.
F. PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES
1. Organizational or Institutional Activities – The DCY organizes and conducts

institutional activities which are diocesan wide and being held annually with the aim of
gathering young people through fun-filled and faith-based programs, such as:
a. Diocesan Youth Way of the Cross

b. Diocesan Youth Summer Camp
c. Marian Youth Pilgrimage
d. Diocesan Youth Day
2. Formation Programs – Through the Diocesan Youth Formation Team, takes the
opportune time in the life of the individual, especially the youth for the total and integral
formation that not only focuses on faith but on all other aspects of growth as well.
Activities and programs to wit:
129
a. Basic Orientation Seminar on Youth Ministry
b. Unang Hakbang
c. Youth Encounter Program
d. Youth Catechesis (YouCat)
e. Basic Bible Seminar
f. Facilitators’ Seminar Workshop
g. Leadership Training
3. Campus Ministry – Another setting so full of potential for youth ministry is the academe.
This setting comprises all those centers for education, whether formal or non-formal.
Its focus and main purpose is the total growth and development of young students.
Activities and programs are the following:
a. College Freshmen Orientation

b. Eucharistic Celebration
c. Catechesis
d. Formation Programs
e. Prayer and Integration Time
4. Apostolate Programs – The Diocesan Youth for Social Action and Communication
aims to reach out young people who are in difficult situation and facilitate activities that
will address to present issues relating to the youth. Programs and activities such as:
a. Youth Desk for “Youth at Risk”

b. Scholarship Program
c. Seminars and Formation Program
d. Collaboration to Agencies which caters to “Youth at Risk”
130
DIOCESAN COMMISSION ON CLERGY AND CONSECRATED LIFE
A. DIOCESAN POLICIES ON VOCATION PROMOTION
1. Promotion of Vocations
a. A generic vocation promotion should be initiated to aim at the awakening of

awareness of the common and universal vocation of all baptized —and the
discernment into the mission of the apostolic laity, the consecrated religious or
the ordained clergy.
b. The whole process of vocation promotion, from its awakening to

accompaniment in ministry should involve the entire parish. The family should
be regarded and encouraged as the best seedbed for vocations. Support—
both spiritual and material—for those being trained in the tasks of apostolic
laity, consecrated and ordained clergy is incumbent upon all members of the
parish.
c. The whole process of vocation promotion and the training for ministries
especially for the diocesan work should, with due regards to the distinct roles
in the church, foster the sense of belongingness to the local church where he
is incardinated.
d. Preferential love for the poor should mark the formation of vocation and the
eventual life and ministry of priest, religious and laity.
e. To create a group of Parish Vocation Animators composed of priest and lay

persons tasked with the following:
i. Promotion of priestly and religious vocations
ii. Help preserve/conserve vocations already in formation
iii. Established financial support for deserving and needy seminarians; and
iv. To assist the seminary formators in the continuing formation of the
seminarians.
f. The Commission on Vocations should re-examine the criteria and standards of

recruitment of seminarians to ensure more quality candidates to the
priesthood.
g. The parish should be responsible for promoting vocations. It should also be

responsible for ministries it can undertake on its own. Sharing ministers with
those localities who need more service as well as help in resources should be
encouraged.
2. Support for the Vocations Apostolate by the Entire Parish
The promotion of vocations should not only be the concern of the priests but of all
those who constitute the parish community. The whole process of vocation promotion,
from its awakening to accompaniment in the ministry should involve the entire parish.
One way of manifesting that support is by extending financial assistance to the

seminaries in our diocese. It is for this reason that decision is made to allocate for the
seminaries the Mass collection of all first Sunday Masses of the month. The homily
reference contains not only an appeal for financial support but more importantly for
spiritual and moral support.
131
Let us reawaken the people's consciousness of their role in fulfilling the pastoral work
for vocations which is an essential part of the overall pastoral Church, a concern which
demands to be integrated into and fully identified with the ordinary care of souls
(Pastores Dabo Vobis, 34).
3. Irreplaceable Role of the Parish Priest in Vocation Promotion
The parish priest has an irreplaceable role in the promotion and recruitment of
vocations and initial formation before entering the seminary. With this approach, the
quality of vocations will hopefully be enhanced.
The source of everything in society begins in mind, not in the real battlefield. In the
post-Cold War era, the confrontation is culturally and ethnically related. A case in point
is turmoil in Mindanao. The transformation of society emanates from a thinking and
critical mind. The archbishop voiced out his tamest desire to have more PhD's in the
seminary more than any school in the vicinity so that thinking minds shall be born from
the bosom of the seminary.
4. Policies on Vocation Recruitment
The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines, noting with concern the
indiscriminate vocation recruitment of ruin foreign religious congregations has set forth
the following policies in the general assembly in July 1990:
a. That any congregation entering the country or diocese should be first approved
by the local church.
b. That the congregation should be endorsed by the Directors of Vocation in the

Philippines (DVP) National Committee.
c. That the congregation take time to get enculturated before doing any
recruitment, and that of third parties involved.
d. That vocation being a free response, the candidate’s choice to enter or to leave
the congregations shall be respected at all times (This freedom of choice is a
fundamental right of the individual
e. That at least some, if not all the members, of the Congregation have knowledge
in English and in local dialect.
f. That with regard to testing and screening of applicants the Congregation

should properly apply for the screening and assessment procedures according
to guidelines specified by Episcopal Commission on Vocations (ECV).
g. That the congregation, in its insertion into the country, respects the culture and
language of the candidate without undue pressure or preference for foreign
language or culture.
h. That in order to insert itself effectively into the local church, the congregation
is encouraged to work and participate in mission according to its spirit and
charism.
i. That a creation of a diocesan/local congregation should follow the norms and

directives of the Code of Canon Law.
132
B. CONSTITUTION AND BY-LAWS OF THE ASSOCIATION OF CONSECRATED PERSONS
IN LEGAZPI (ACPIL)
Article I – NAME OF THE ASSOCIATION
The name of the Association shall be “Association of Consecrated Persons in Legazpi”

(ACPIL).
The address of the Association shall be at the Chancery, Cathedral Compound, Albay
District, Legazpi City, Philippines.
Article II – PURPOSE OF THE ASSOCIATION
Vision. The Association of Consecrated Persons in Legazpi (ACPIL) is a Christ-centered

association of consecrated women and men witnessing to the Gospel in the midst of the
world in communion and in solidarity with one another for the service of God’s people.
Mission. The Association finds expression through the different charisms and apostolates
of each member congregation under the care of Our Lady of Salvation.
The Association commits to:
6. Maintain mutual collaboration with the Diocese of Legazpi;

7. Take an active part and involvement in the life of the Local Church of the
Diocese of Legazpi in achieving its vision-mission and the pastoral programs
and activities of the Diocese;
8. Establish and strengthen collaboration and linkages within and outside the
Diocese of Legazpi;
9. Deepen relationships and support among its members;
10. Be in solidarity with those in the peripheries, serving them with compassion
towards development of the whole person;
11. Respect and promote justice, peace, and integral ecology.
Article III – MEMBERSHIP
Membership is open to consecrated persons who are legitimately associated with the
Diocese of Legazpi, such as:
1. Ordinary Members – Those who have publicly professed perpetual vows,

members of all the different Congregations of Religious Life and Secular
Institutes. They have the right to vote and be voted upon into any office of the
Association, and on matters affecting the Association.
2. Secondary Members – Those who have professed temporary vows. They have
no right to vote and be voted upon into any office of the Association but can
give comments and suggestions.
Duties of the Members
1. Be present and actively participate in the activities of the Association.

2. Accept responsibilities and undertakings of the Association.
3. Share relevant information, skills, and expertise, which may be helpful for the
Association.
4. Pay the annual membership fee as determined by the Executive Board.
133
Rights of the Members
1. Be informed and updated on issues affecting the Association.

2. Make referral to and avail of the services like on-going formation, sharing of
resources and expertise, or any other forms of services offered by the
Association.
3. Vote on matters presented by the Executive Board for deliberation or decision.
4. For ordinary members, be nominated and voted upon to an office.
Termination of Members
Membership in the Associate ceases upon canonical transfer of assignment of its

members outside of the Diocese of Legazpi.
Article IV – STRUCTURE
The Association functions through the following bodies:
1. The General Assembly
a. The General Assembly shall be composed of consecrated persons who

are legitimately associated with the Diocese of Legazpi.
b. The General Assembly shall meet at least once a year, the specific date
and place of which shall be determined by the Executive Board. This
meeting is convoked by the Vicar/Chairperson of the Board in
consultation with the members of the Executive Board. A simple
majority of the members constitutes a quorum.
c. The General Assembly shall have the following functions:
i. To present the programs of the Association where the members

take an active part in all the endeavors and activities of the
Association.
ii. To nominate and elect by congregation through the local
superior or the official representative of the community the ten
(10) members of the Executive Board, and one (1)
representative from each vicariate.
iii. To deliberate, decide, and ratify any amendments to this
Constitution.
d. Each congregation is entitled to only one (1) vote.
2. The Executive Board
a. The Executive Board is composed of ten (10) members, five (5) of them
women and five (5) men, and one (1) representative from each of the
six vicariates.
b. The appointed Vicar for Consecrated Life by the Bishop from the ten
(10) members elected is the Chairperson of the Executive Board.
c. The Vicar calls for the meeting of the Executive Board. They shall elect
from among them: two (2) Vice Chairpersons, one (1) from among the
134
women and another one (1) from the men; Secretary; Recording
Secretary; Treasurer; Auditor; and Sub-Committee Heads for:
i. Formation/Education
ii. Vocation Promotion
iii. Outreach Program: Women, Children, and Youth; Justice,
Peace, and Integrity of Creation
iv. Vicarial Representatives
d. The term of office of the Officers shall be two (2) years. If for any reason,
one of the officers deems it necessary to resign before the completion
of her/his term, the Chairperson of the Executive Committee shall
convoke a meeting to elect her/his successor. The newly elected officer
shall serve the unfinished term of the officer who resigns.
e. The officers of the Executive Board shall serve the office for one (1)
term and can be re-elected for another term.
f. The Executive Board shall meet at least twice a year or as often as

necessary when there are urgent and important matters to be
discussed and decided upon, the time and place of such meetings shall
be determined by the members of the Board. Two thirds (⅔) of the
members shall constitute a quorum.
g. Each member of the Executive Board is entitled to only one (1) vote.
h. The Executive Board determines the annual membership fee.
Functions of the Executive Board
a. To promote a spirit of mutual understanding and cooperation, respect,

and appreciation of the Diocese and among its members.
b. To communicate to the members relevant information and request from
the Ecclesiastical Authority of the Diocese and from other institutions
and agencies for study, consideration, and proper action.
c. To convoke the General Assembly, fixing the date and place of the
meeting.
d. To prepare the agenda of the General Assembly and notify promptly all
the members.
e. To approve the annual plan of the Association and project proposals
requiring outside financial support.
f. To review and approve the financial report of the Treasurer.
g. To conduct yearly fundraising activities when needed for the programs
and services of the Association.
Duties of the Officers
a. The Vicar/Chairperson of the Executive Board shall preside over the

meetings of the General Assembly and the Executive Board. S/he is
also the official representative of the Association in Diocesan
assemblies and meetings. The Vicar/Chairperson shall give an annual
report of the status of the Association to the General Assembly.
b. The Vice Chairpersons shall assist the Vicar/Chairperson in the

management of the Association. In the absence of the Vicar, one of the
135
Vice Chairpersons shall act as the representative of the Association in
Diocesan assemblies and meetings.
c. The Secretary, with the help of the Recording Secretary, shall take
the minutes and make the report of all the Executive Board meetings
and assemblies of the Association. S/he sends out through a fast way
of communication any notice of meetings to the Executive Board and
members of the General Assembly with the agenda approved by the
Chairperson. S/he shall keep all the documents of the Association
properly filed.
d. The Treasurer shall be the custodian of the funds and properties of the
Association. S/he shall keep the record of receipts and expenses intact,
make an accounting of all the funds entrusted to her/him for
safekeeping, and prepare an Annual Financial Statement to the Board
and to the General Assembly.
e. The Auditor examines all the accounts and inventories of the

Association; prepares, reports, and submits annual audited reports to
the Executive Board.
Duties of the Sub-Committee Heads
a. To encourage membership and to present the members of the

committees to the Executive Board.
b. To spearhead the preparation and implementation of the annual plan,
projects, and activities of their respective committees.
c. To facilitate evaluation of plans, projects, and activities of the
Association.
Duties of the Vicarial Representatives
a. To represent their vicariate in executive meetings and deliberations.

b. To be present during the respective vicarial meetings of the Diocese.
c. To serve as link/liaison to and from the Executive Board in their
respective vicariates.
d. To give updates of vicarial activities to the Association through the
Executive Board.
Article V – FUNDING
The operation of the Association shall be funded by:
1. Annual membership fee

2. Registration fees
3. Fundraising activities
4. Donations
136
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DIOCESAN

A community of life-giving families, empowered poor, and vibrant youth in Albay

Dear People of God in the Diocese of Legazpi:

Diocesan Vision and Mission Statement……………………………………………….........................i

Part I – General Policies

Diocesan Pastoral Structure………………………………………………………………..1

I. General Policies for the Diocesan Pastoral Council (DPC)………………………….2

A. Nature and Functions……………………………………………………………………2

II. General Policies for Vicarial Pastoral Councils (VPC)……………………………..11

A. Nature and Function…………………………………………………………………...11

III. General Policies for Parish Pastoral Councils (PPC)………………………………15

A. Nature and Function…………………………………………………………………...15

A. Nature and Function…………………………………………………………………...21

V. General Policies for Barangay Pastoral Councils (BPC)…………………………..24

A. Nature and Function…………………………………………………………………...24

Part II – Particular Policies

I. Policies on the Diocesan Council of the Laity…………………….27

A. Goals and Objectives………………………………………………………………….27

II. Diocesan Commission on Worship……………………………………………………30

A. Diocesan Policies on the Administration of Sacraments……………………………30

III. Diocesan Commission on Christian Education……………………………………...49

A. Legazpi Catechetical Ministry…………………………………………………………49

IV. Diocesan Commission on Social Concerns………………………………………….65

Policies of the Sub-Commission on Social Action…………………….65

V. Diocesan Commission on Temporalities……………………………………………..70

General Policies of the Sub-Commission on Lands……………………………………..70

VI. Diocesan Commission on Ecclesial Communities………………………………...113

A. Policies on the Integration of Ecclesial Movements and Communities

VII. Diocesan Commission on Family and Life………………………………………….119

Operational Policies …………………………………………………………………...119

VIII. Diocesan Commission on Youth……………………………………………………...122

Comprehensive Policies of the Commission on Youth…………......122

IX. Diocesan Commission on Clergy and Consecrated Life………………………….130

A. Diocesan Policies on Vocation Promotion………………………………………….130

ACPIL Association of Consecrated Persons in Legazpi

BACS Bikol Association of Catholic Schools

CBCP Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines

DCCCL Diocesan Commission on Clergy and Consecrated Life

ECCCE Episcopal Commission on Catechesis and Catholic Education

FDYOM Federation of Diocesan Youth Organizations and Movements

GIRM General Instruction of the Roman Missal

HARONG HArarom na pagRanga sa Orog na naNGangaipo

LCM Legazpi Catechetical Ministry

MAS Ministry of Altar Servers

OGF On-Going Formation

PaDReCom Parish Disaster Response Committee

SAC Social Action Center

TADÂ Tanganing an Dukha Atamanon

VCCCL Vicarial Commission on Clergy and Consecrated Life

WESTECFLYC Worship, Christian Education, Social Concerns, Temporalities, Ecclesial

YouCat Youth Catechesis

A. Vicariate of Saint John the Baptist

B. Vicariate of Saint Rose of Lima

C. Vicariate of Saint Raphael the Archangel

D. Vicariate of Saint Gregory the Great

E. Vicariate of Saint Stephen the Protomartyr

I. GENERAL POLICIES FOR THE DIOCESAN PASTORAL COUNCIL (DPC)

A. NATURE AND FUNCTIONS

§2. When the see is vacant, a pastoral council ceases.