City in Cebu tied with Pope John Paul II Council 14023 in Starachowice, Poland for the first place in the Youth Activities Award. Visayas Deputy Esteban, his lady Fe and Grand Knight Fabian C. Regis proudly ascended the rostrum to claim the award.

Supreme Knight Carl Anderson bestowed the

The CrossA Supplement Publication of KCFAPI

and the Order of the Knights of Columbus

C1Vol. 13 No. 17August 17 - 30, 2009

CBCP Monitor

THE Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Inc. (KCFAPI) organized a courtesy meeting with some officers of the Supreme Council on the occasion of the 127th Supreme Convention held in Phoenix, Arizona, USA.

Held on August 3, 2009, at the Desert Ridge Marriott Hotel in Phoenix, Arizona, the meeting was attended by the following Su-preme Officers: Deputy Supreme Knight Dennis A. Savoie, Supreme Treasurer John W. O’Reilly, Jr., Supreme Advocate John A. Marrella, Supreme Director Alberto P. Solis, and Director for Philippines Af-fairs Eduardo Lacsi.

KCFAPI meets Supreme OfficersThe KCFAPI Officers who were at the meeting were the follow-

ing: Chairman Patrocinio R. Bacay, President Antonio B. Borromeo, Treasurer Antonio T. Yulo, Corporate Secretary Alonso L. Tan, Board of Trustee Member Dionisio R. Esteban, Jr. , Executive Vice President Ma. Theresa G. Curia, and Chaplain Msgr. Pedro C. Quitorio.

Borromeo informed the Supreme Officers about the history of KCFAPI and its present status as he distributed printed copies of his 2008 report that registered a phenomenal success of the Association that just celebrated its golden anniversary.

He pointed out that although the Supreme Council is not party to the organization and management of KCFAPI, it has a direct im-pact on the Association in the sense that the said Supreme Council appoints the three State Deputies and the Vice Supreme Master

which compose ex officio the Founder Members Committee together with the Archbishop of Manila, the CBCP President and the Jesuit Provincial.

For his part, Bacay reminded the Supreme Officers of some important issues earlier raised by KCFAPI during its meeting with the Supreme Knight some five years ago. He appealed to the Deputy Supreme Knight to give due discretion to said issues that may prove helpful not only to KCFAPI but largely to the Order in general.

According to Borromeo, the meeting which was very cordial was the first ever between the KCFAPI and the Supreme Officers.

The meeting culminated with a lunch prepared by KCFAPI. (KCFAPI News)

Supreme Officers and KCFAPI Officers during the courtesy meeting held at the Desert Ridge Marriott Hotel in Phoenix, Arizona last August 3.

KCFAPI passes surveillance auditfor Financial Management and Accounting Services.

The surveillance audit is being conducted every six months. Next year KCFAPI will have its reas-sessment under the ISO 9001:2008 Standards.

Meanwhile, Flores noted that the KCFAPI is the first Mutual Benefit Association which is ISO 9001:2000 Certified in the Philippines.

She added that the Association is under the scope of Design, Development and Provision of Mutual Benefits.

Certification International is a certifying body that is tasked to provide quality management systems assessment and to approve certification services to different organizations worldwide.

The ISO certification and continued surveillance audit is KCFAPI’s way of assuring its Benefit Cer-tificate Holders of the quality of service rendered to them. (KCFAPI News)

KCFAPI receives TOKCA nomineesALMOST one month after the 2009 Search for The Outstanding Knights of Columbus Awards (TOKCA) was formally launched on July 2, 2009, the Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippine Inc. (KCFAPI) has 123 names of Brother Knights who are vying for the awards.

KCFAPI, the life insurance provider of the Knights of Columbus and their immediate families is the sponsor of the TOKCA.

The award will recognize the outstanding achievements of members in their respective fields of endeavor.

The award is open to all Brother Knights in the following professions: government service; accoun-tancy and business; engineering, science and technol-ogy; academe; medical and health care services; law and judiciary; sports and entertainment; journalism and media; agriculture; youth and community devel-opment; arts and literature and entrepreneurship.

The TOKCA will also serve as an inspiration to all members to live up to the cardinal principles of Charity, Unity, Fraternity and Patriotism.

The nominees must be endorsed by their re-spective parish priests and Grand Knights. The deadline for submission of nomination is on Sep-tember 15, 2009.

The winners will be awarded their plaque of rec-ognition during the State Dinner of the KC National Convention to be held in April 2010 at the Water-front Lahug, Cebu City. (Joseph P. Teodoro)

THE members of the Knights of Columbus from the three Philippine jurisdictions bagged prestigious awards during the 127th Supreme Convention held in Phoenix, Arizona, USA, August 4-6, 2009.

Luzon and Mindanao were among the 10 juris-dictions given the distinction of having the most “VIP” (Very Important Proposers) Club members with Luzon topping the list for having 8,707 new recruits for the current year, while Mindanao oc-cupying the 10th for getting 3,774 new recruits. Lu-zon Deputy Alonso L. Tan and Mindanao Deputy Sofronio R. Cruz received the awards.

The Columbian Squires Award was given to Luzon for achieving the greatest gain in Squire membership recruitment with 2,617 new Squires that brought a total of 11,352 at the end of the fraternal year. Luzon Squires Chairman Jose Cuaresma was present to receive the award with the Luzon Deputy.

Visayas also earned the award for having the highest net gain of 20 Columbian Squires circles this year, the highest net gain in circles so far in the Order. Visayas Deputy Dionisio R. Esteban, Jr. received the award.

Together with 18 others, the three Philippine jurisdictions earned the Supreme Knight’s New Council Development Award for new council development and reactivation with Mindanao gaining 100%, Luzon 105% and Visayas 360%.

Order-wide, there were only six councils that garnered the Century Club Award which is given to councils that add 100 members over suspensions and withdrawals. Three of the six councils came from the Philippines, namely: Council 4074 of Guimba, Nueva Ecija, Luzon with 107 members; Council 1000 of Manila with 108 members; and Council 7813 of Allacapan, Cagayan, Luzon with 231 members. The other three awardees of this category came from California, Texas and New Jersey.

Of the five jurisdictions with the highest number of Star Council winners as of June 30, 2009, Luzon occupied the highest position: Luzon, 120; Texas, 96; Michigan, 72; Florida, 57; and California, 52. The Star Council Award is the highest distinction any council can achieve.

The three Philippine Jurisdictions have also dominated the Star District Awards with the highest number of Star District winners: Luzon, 131; Visayas, 72; Mindanao, 71; Texas, 24; and California, 19. This award is given to district depu-ties attaining 100 percent or more of their district’s membership.

Luzon (181%) was in the top rank category with Mexico South (228%) and Dominican Republic

Philippine KC bags Supreme Awards

(185%) in the Supreme Knight’s Circle of Honor Award. Visayas (130%) and Mindanao (122%) also got the award on the lower percentile category. This prestigious distinction is awarded to State Deputies who have achieved 100 percent or more of their net gain quota for the fraternal year.

The Mandaue Fatima Council 7101 in Mandaue

Luzon Deputy Alonso L. Tan, Visayas Deputy Dionisio R. Esteban, Jr., Mindanao Deputy Sofronio R. Cruz, Assistant State Chaplain Msgr. Pedro Quitorio, State Advocate Justice Jose C. Reyes, Jr., State Ways and Means Chairman Miguel Yu, State Squires Chairman Jose Cuaresma and other members of the Knights of Columbus from the three Philippine jurisdictions and their ladies during the recently held 127th Supreme Convention in Phoenix, Arizona, USA.

FBG Manager heads meeting of St. Michael CouncilTHE Manager of the Fraternal Ben-efits Group (FBG), Gari San Sebas-tian, has facilitated the meeting of the St. Michael council in Bulacan, held August 2, 2009.

San Sebastian tackled on the products being offered by the as-sociation which are the Gold Series Plan (KC C.A.R.E.S.), KC Capital Accumulator Plan, KC Assurance Plan, KC Retire Plus Plan, En-hanced College Savings Plan and Super Saver Plan.

He also discussed the various in-centive programs of the association and the two new contests of the KC association namely: Most Outstand-ing District Deputy (MODD) and the Council of Honors Awards.

MODD is designed for District Deputies appointed in the Colum-bian Year 2009-2010 that has imple-mented an insurance coverage of at least P100,000.

Council of Honors Awards, on the other hand, is intended for the

KCFAPI President Antonio B. Borromeo and Officers pose with Ms. Sofia S. Mangahas of Certification International during the closing meeting of the surveillance audit held at the KCFAPI main office in Intramuros, Manila last July 27.

THE Knights of Co-lumbus Fraternal As-sociation in the Philip-pines, Inc. (KCFAPI) has recently passed the 5th surveillance audit for ISO Certifica-tion conducted by the Certification Interna-tional.

The inspection was held last July 27, 2009 at the KCFAPI main office in Intramuros, Manila.

The said surveil-lance was headed by Ms. Sofia S. Mangahas,

Surveillance Auditor of Certification International while KCFAPI President Antonio B. Borromeo led the officers of the Association.

The KCFAPI officers who participated in the audit include Executive Vice President, Ma. Theresa G. Curia; Joseph P. Teodoro, Vice President of Fraternal Benefits Group; Mary Magdalene G. Flores, Vice Presi-dent for Finance and Quality Management Represen-tative; Joselito E. Mañalac, Assistant Vice President for Actuarial & Customer Relations Group; Ronulfo Antero G. Infante, Senior Manager for Management Information System; Pedro P. Lubenia, Senior Man-ager for Corporate Audit and Lead Auditor; Atty. Rizal V. Katalbas, Jr., Manager for Legal Services; Edwin B. Dawal, Manager for BC Holders’ Relations Office; Carmelita S. Ruiz, Manager for Underwriting Services; Gari M. San Sebastian, Manager for Fraternal Benefits Services and Rowena M. Diapolit, Manager

KC Councils of the three jurisdic-tions namely: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

Council should have a good stand-ing with their territorial jurisdic-tions and must have active serving fraternal counselors to qualify for the awards.

He also gave an update on the recently launched Ten Outstanding Knights of Columbus Awards (TOK-CA) which already has 123 submitted names of Brother Knights who are vy-

ing for the said awards to date.San Sebastian said that there was

a total of 37 officers and members of the council who attended the said meeting.

Efren Casupan, Area Manager of the Central Luzon Believers and the Round Table of District Depu-ties Chairman, and Ariston Fran-cisco, Fraternal Counselor and Past Grand Knight of the San Ildefonso Council, have also participated in the said meeting. (CBCPNews)

awards and warmly congratulated all the awardees. He was assisted by Deputy Supreme Knight Dennis A. Savoie and Patrick S. Korten, Vice President for Communications. (KCFAPI News)

The CrossC2 Vol. 13 No. 17August 17 - 30, 2009

CBCP Monitor

WE have just attended the 127th Supreme Convention at Phoenix, Ari-zona. It was held at the JW Marriott Desert

Ridge Resort and Spa. As it is the first time the conven-tion was held in Phoenix, the host KC State welcomed us with their warm hospitality. Joining us are the Chairman Patrocinio R. Bacay, Treasurer Antonio T. Yulo, the 3 Ter-ritorial Deputies: SK Alonso L. Tan, SK Dionisio R. Esteban, Jr., SK Sofronio R. Cruz and the Executive Vice President Ma. Theresa G. Curia. Our Spiritual Director, Msgr. Pedro C. Quitorio III was also present with four other members of the clergy: Most Rev. Romulo T. dela Cruz, Bishop of Kidapawan, Most Rev. Angel N. Lagdameo, Archbishop of Jaro, Most Rev. Julito B. Cortes, Auxiliary Bishop of Cebu and Most Rev. Jesse E. Mercado, Bishop of the Diocese of

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Chairman’s Message

Patrocinio R. Bacay

President’s MessageAntonio B. Borromeo

AS we represent KCFAPI here in Phoenix, Arizona for the Order’s 127th Supreme Convention, we feel a sense of bonding among Knights worldwide. As we celebrate the feast of St. John Vianney, Patron Saint of Priests, it is but fitting that the theme of the convention is: “We stand with Peter in Solidarity with our Bishops and Priests.” We are once again reminded of our commitment to support our Holy Father and all that he stands for. With the various difficulties we face today, we need the constant guidance of the Lord Jesus Christ through Pope Benedict XVI and all the anointed Bishops and priests who represent our Holy Father.

This message has been echoed again and again in the homilies of the many masses we attended during the convention. We feel one with our Brother Knights and their families as we celebrate life as a member of the Knights of Columbus Order. We shall continue to support each other in prayer and in constantly living the principles of charity, unity, fraternity and patriotism.

Vivat Iesus!

Paranaque. Most of us have attended this yearly conven-tion in the past and as always, it is heartwarming to meet other brother Knights and their families from the USA, Canada, Central and South America. The Deputy Supreme Knight Dennis Savoie tendered a private luncheon with us together with SK Eduardo G. Lacsi, the Director for Philip-pine Affairs and SK Alberto P. Solis, Supreme Director.

After the Supreme Convention, we attended the first International Marian Congress of our Lady of Guada-lupe. The congress, which preceded a family-friendly Guadalupe Festival at Jobing.com Arena on August 8, featured talks by experts from the United States and Latin America on our Lady of Guadalupe.

As the Knights of Columbus, is always in forefront of many different initiatives, this year’s convention calls for all its members worldwide to defend the right to life and to protect marriage. And so, being the only Catholic nation in the world, we enjoin all members of the order in the Philippines, to be vigilant and serve as catalysts for religious and social transformation.

MR. Dawal or Mr. D, a CPA, started as Accounting Clerk for the General Account Section of the Knights of Columbus Fraternal As-sociation of the Philippines, Inc. (KCFAPI) on January 16, 1983 and was promoted to General Account Supervisor on the same year. Though he seemed quiet and shy, this local from Albay proved his worth, and became Assistant Accounting Manager in 1987. On the same year, he became a full-fledged Accounting Manager. In 2003, he became Manager – Financial Accounting and FC’s Accounts De-partment which is now called Financial Management and Account-ing Services Department. At present, Mr. Dawal is the BC Holders’ Relations Office Manager.

Aside from his responsibilities in KCFAPI, Mr. Dawal also serves as Administrative Officer of the KC Philippines Foundations and Fr. Willmann Charities since 2003. He is also very active in the Order of

Edwin B. DawalBC Holders’ Relations Office Manager

the Knights of Columbus be-ing a Former District Deputy of M-47 and a Past Grand Knight of KC Manila Council 1000. His other achievements include being Professional – Customer Service and Fellow, Life Management Institute of Life Office Management Association (LOMA). Mr. D also finished Pastoral Biblical Studies and Certificate in Theological Studies from the Divine Word School of Theology in Tagaytay.

Mr. Dawal is married to Teresa and they are blessed with three children: Mariclare, Fatima Joy and John David. (Rowena M. Di-apolit)

KC Fraternal Davao – In Service Through Times

DAVAO’S name was probably derived from the Bagobo word "Daba-daba" which means "fire". This place was referred to as a re-gion of flames or fire by the early Jesuit priests as recorded in their early books. Many natives, however, believe that the name Davao was derived from the great river which the early Tagabawa tribe referred to as Dabu.

However, no matter where it got its name, it is but proper for all Davaoeños, be they natives or migrants, to be proud of Davao City, being one of the fastest growing cities and highly urbanized city in the Philippines. It is recognized as the most competitive Metro City (2001, 2003 and 2005 by Asian Institute of Management), Most Liv-able City (1996-1999 by Asiaweek) and the Cleanest and Greenest City (Highly Urbanized Category, 1999-2005) in the Philippines. It is also considered as one of the largest cities in the whole world in terms of land area with total land area of 2,443.61 square kilometers. There are vividly good reasons why Davao is known by many titles and monikers, like Orchid Capital of the Philippines, Fruit Basket of the Philippines- the City of Durian, Home of the Great Bird of Asia, and many more.

The Service Office of Davao was estab-lished in the year 1986, during one of the dramatic and tu-multuous period of our country’s histo-ry. That was the time when a once humble housewife rose to the top government position of our coun-try to restore order and democracy. The symbol of peace and change, considered as our dear mother of country’s democ-racy, forever adored President Cory C. Aquino. Just like her who served the Fili-pino people whole-heartedly, the Davao Service Office also aims to earnestly serve our KC brother Knights in the vast regions of Southern Phil-ippines. We cater and serve the provinces of Davao del Norte, Davao del Sur, Compostela Valley, Sarangani Province, South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao and North Cotabato and its compo-nent cities. The Davao Service office is strategically located in K of C Bldg at Claro M. Recto St. just a stone throw away from San Pedro Cathedral where Davao Council 3289, one of the founding members of KCFAPI is located.

Since its establishment more than two decades ago, the Davao Service Office through its personnel, continues to provide optimum service and fraternal benefits to our brother Knights and their imme-diate families and likewise constantly renders support to the Order. Just recently, the conference room was expanded to accommodate various meetings and conferences of KCFAPI and of the Mindanao Jurisdiction.

The Davao Service Office is presently manned by Fraternal Benefits Associate Adrian B. Boston, with competent SO Staff, Mary Jane O. Mendoza and Rogelio S. Cabanlit. These Service Office personnel are closely working hand in hand with our Fraternal Counselors from Eastern Mindanao, Central Mindanao and North Central Mindanao. Along with their hardworking Area Managers/Team Leaders, Bro. Fidel L. Blantucas, Bro. Lorenzo D. Labrador Jr. and Bro. Nonato M. Acupan respectively, in order to carry on the aspirations of the founder of the Knights of Columbus, Fr. Michael J. McGivney through KCFAPI.

Davao Service Office lives up to the monikers of the area it covers. Like the Explorers from North Central Mindanao, we will continue to explore new ways to raise our standards of performance and improve our quality of service; a Central Mindanao Cowboy, always driven to provide security to his herds; and like Eastern Mindanao and Davao’s symbol and icon, the Philippine Eagle; we at KCFAPI will soar to new heights of growth and stability in the years to come.

Come visit us at Davao Service Office, Come experience Davao! Celebrate August! Ug mag indak-indak ta sa kadalanan karong Ka-dayawan sa Dabaw 2009! (Sources: Davao Historic Society, DCIPC Philippine Information Agency – Region XI, www.davaocity.gov.ph and www.traveler.com) (Adrian B. Boston)

Fraternal Benefits Associate Adrian B. Boston, Service Office Staff Mary Jane O. Mendoza and Rogelio S. Cabanlit of KC Fraternal Davao Service Office.

KC Foundation scholars pass 2009 Nursing Board Exams

KC Foundation AnnouncementWe are calling the attention of all former Knights

of Columbus Philippines Foundation scholars or anybody who may have information about them. The Foundation is planning to hold a gathering of all collegiate scholars next year and we need your help to realize this. Please update us of your current status, residence address and contact details through these numbers: 0929-7012789; 0915-2711600; 0917-8255632 or 527-2223 local 230. You may also email us at kc.foundations@yahoo.com or msdenisecs@yahoo.com or visit our office at KC Fr. George J. Willmann Center, General Luna corner Sta. Potenciana Sts., Intra-muros, Manila.

FOUR foundation scholars recently passed the 2009 Nursing Li-censure Examination conducted last June by the Board of Nursing in key cities nationwide. They are Ms. Michelle O. Alferez (Rev. Fr. Urbano L. Kintanar Council 3940 Naga, Cebu), Ms. Merjean G. Maiso (Rev. Fr. Bonifacio Garcia Council 10487 Claveria, Misamis Oriental), Ms. Ellien Grace E. Macanas (Sta. Lucia Council 9366 Sta. Lucia, Novaliches, Quezon City) and Mr. Christian Janus C. Simon (Ilagan Council 3705 Ilagan, Isabela).

Ms. Alferez and Ms. Maiso were scholars of the KC Philippines Foundation, Inc. from school year 2005-2009. Ms. Alferez was a graduate of Cebu City Medical Center College of Nursing and daughter to Bro. Hilarion and Sis. Soccoro Alferez of Naga, Cebu while Ms. Maiso obtained her Nursing degree at Lourdes Col-

lege in Cagayan de Oro City. She is the daughter of the late Bro. Wilmer Maiso and Sis. Resureccion Maiso of Claveria, Misamis Oriental.

On the other hand, Ms. Macanas and Mr. Simon completed their undergraduate degrees at Far Eastern University and were benefi-ciaries of the Supreme Council Scholarship Program from school year 2005-2009. Ms. Macanas is the daughter of Bro. Danilo and Sis. Angelie Macanas of Novaliches, Quezon City, while Mr. Simon is the son of Bro. Marcelo and Sis. Ma. Soledad Simon of Ilagan, Isa-bela. The Supreme Council Scholarship Program is being funded by the Knights of Columbus Supreme Council Office in Connecticut, U.S.A. and administered locally by KC Philippines Foundation, Inc. (Denise C. Solina)

IF at the moment there is a greater need for family financial security than accumulating funds for retirement or a special project, KCFAPI suggests that one consider its 15 Payment Life Plan.

U n d e r t h i s p l a n , the insured is covered throughout his lifetime but will only have to pay for 15 years. In the event of the insured’s death while the policy is in force, KCFAPI will deliver the amount of insurance stated in the

For Brother Knights by Brother KnightsAffordable Life Insurance Plan

benefit certificate. (minus all indebtedness plus accumulated dividends)

To illustrate the 15 payment plan, see table below.

Like other plans being offered by KCFAPI,

the 15 payment life plan also has the follow-ing features.

1. Guaranteed non-forfeiture option (Cash Value, Reduced Paid Up & Extended Term Insurance)

2. Annual Dividends3. Added Value Pro-

tection

The minimum face val-ue available is P100,000.00. Please contact us or your nearest fraternal coun-selor for further details. (Joseph Teodoro)

THE Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Inc. (KCFAPI) hosted the meeting of the Chamber of Mutual Benefit Associations, Inc. (CHAMBAI) at KCFAPI office in Intramuros, Manila to discuss among the members certain issues regarding the Anti-Money Laundering Act.

The meeting initiated by CHAMBAI president Ms. Carmen Ro-driguez was held on July 28.

Representatives from different Mutual Benefit Associations (MBAs) including representatives from the Insurance Commis-sion and Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC), Ms. Precy Manlutac and Mr. George Tan, respectively participated in the meeting.

KCFAPI hosts meeting of CHAMBAIMeanwhile, Atty. Rizal V. Katalbas, Jr., CHAMBAI Vice President

represented KCFAPI.Mr. George Tan, Deputy Director of Information Management

and Analysis Group of the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC), tackled on matters about the submission of Suspicious Transaction Report (STR) and Covered Transaction Report (CTR) to the AMLC as required under the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2001 (AMLA Law).

He explained the rationale behind the submission of said reportorial requirements under AMLA, the duties and responsibilities of Mutual Benefit Associations (MBAs) prescribed under the IC Circulars as well as the corresponding administrative penalty imposed for covered entities

who shall fail to com-ply with the regula-tory requirements, among others.

Also discussed during the meeting was the draft of the Regulatory Frame-work for Micro-in-surance prepared by the Department of Finance/IC-Techni-cal Working Group (TWG).

At the moment, the said framework is being presented for regional consul-tation with industry players around the country in prepara-tion for its imple-mentation by the Insurance Commis-sion. (Atty. Rizal V. Katalbas, Jr.)

CHAMBAI President, Ms. Carmen Rodriguez (seated 3rd from left), together with Ms. Precy Manlutac of the Insurance Commission (seated, extreme left) and Mr. George Tan of Anti-Money Laundering Council (seated 3rd from right) together with representatives of various Mutual Benefit Associations during their meeting held on July 28, 2009 at the KCFAPI office in Intramuros, Manila.

C3Vol. 13 No. 17August 17 - 30, 2009

The CrossCBCP Monitor

SK Alonso L. Tan, president of KC Fr. George J. Willmann Charities, Inc. recently announced the new priest-scholars of the Father Michael J. McGivney Fund for Advanced Studies in Rome.

This year’s slots were open for Luzon and Mindanao Chaplains of the Knights of Columbus. The chosen scholars were Rev. Fr. Jeffrey D. Habado from Luzon and Rev. Fr. Reynaldo B. Mission from Mindanao.

Rev. Fr. Jeffrey D. Habado is from the Diocese of Baguio and is the Assistant Chaplain of KC Council 12568 La Trinidad, Benguet. Fr. Habado has been a scholar of the Foundation during his The-ology years at the Immaculate Conception School of Theology in Vigan City where he graduated Cum Laude in 2004. He just ended his three-year assignment as Spiritual Director of San Pablo Major Seminary in Baguio City. He will take up Licentiate in Philosophy

at the Gregorian University. On the other hand, Rev. Fr. Reynaldo B. Mission is from the Dio-

cese of Marbel. He was recommended by KC Council 4576 Koronadal City where he served as Council Chaplain. He finished his Theol-ogy at Saint Francis Xavier Regional Major Seminary of Mindanao and took up his Licentiate in Canon Law at the University of Santo Tomas where he graduated Cum Laude in 2007. Fr. Mission was as-signed as Chancellor and Episcopal Vicar of his Diocese prior to his departure for Rome. He will pursue his Doctoral Studies in Canon Law at Angelicum University.

Fr. Habado and Fr. Mission will reside at the Pontificio Collegio Filippino during their stay in Rome. The Father Michael J. McGivney Fund for Advanced Studies in Rome is a 2-year scholarship program being funded by the Knights of Columbus Supreme Council in New Haven Connecticut, U.S.A. and administered locally by the KC Fr. Willmann Charities, Inc. (Denise C. Solina)

POPE Benedict XVI’s recent encyclical, Caritas in Veritate (Charity in Truth), should serve as a reminder of the im-portance of the first principle of our Order.

In his introduction to the encyclical, the pope writes, “Charity is at the heart of the Church’s social doctrine.” He then makes clear that our charity must be true charity.

“Without truth,” he says, “charity degenerates into senti-mentality.” On the other hand, “practicing charity in truth helps people to understand that adhering to the values of Christianity is not merely useful but essential for building a good society and for true integral development.”

We might look at this in light of the Lord’s Prayer. Pope Benedict quotes the first two words of that prayer — “Our Father” — at the end of his encyclical. If we take those two words seriously, we must realize the truth that all of us are members of one family.

From this perspective, it is easier for us to see how the law and prophets are summarized in Christ’s two great commandments — that we love God totally and love our neighbors as ourselves (see Mt 22:37-40). Thus, we are able to speak of “caritas in veritate.”

When we understand that we are all members of the same human family and accept these two commandments, we can no longer ask Cain’s question: “Am I my brother’s keeper?” (Gen 4:9). Instead, we must realize that our freedom cannot take the form of simply amassing as much wealth as we can. Instead, the actions we take should reflect the reality of our familial connection to our neighbor, and we should take stock of how everything we do affects others. In fact, to be a Christian is to be a man or woman for others.

This is the beautiful message of the encyclical.Sadly, not everyone will focus on this message. Some will try to view the encyclical as a political

True CharityThe pope’s new encyclical illuminates the great commandments of love

By Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson

document, as support for their policy preferences or po-litical philosophy. But to do that would miss the point. As the document itself states: “The Church does not have technical solutions to offer and does not claim ‘to interfere in any way in the politics of States.’ She does, however, have a mission of truth to accomplish” (9).

The question is not whether this encyclical validates our viewpoint, but rather how it can help us to grow in our faith as children of God and members of the human family. All human beings, including the unborn, are part of that family. The pope made this perfectly clear in his encycli-cal: “Openness to life is at the center of true development. When a society moves towards the denial or suppression of life, it ends up no longer finding the necessary motiva-tion and energy to strive for man’s true good. If personal and social sensitivity towards the acceptance of a new life is lost, then other forms of acceptance that are valuable for society also wither away” (28, emphasis in original).

Additionally, the Holy Father points out that religious liberty is a key component to development. He wrote, “The Christian religion and other religions can offer their contribution to development only if God has a place in the public realm, specifically in regard to its cultural, social,

economic, and particularly its political dimensions” (56, emphasis in original).In this issue of Columbia, we explore the contribution of the Catholic Church in the areas of health

care, social service, education and religious freedom. The success of each of these ventures has been a result of the commitment by individual Catholics to charity in truth.

Let us honor their legacy, and the pope’s call, by renewing our commitment to true charity.Vivat Iesus!

KC Foundation announces new KC Priest-scholars in Rome

Rev. Fr. Jeffrey D. Habado Rev. Fr. Reynaldo B. Mission

THE Knights of Columbus Luzon Jurisdiction expressed sympathy on the death of the First Woman President of the Philippines, Cora-zon Aquino last August 1, 2009 at 3:18 a.m. due to cardio-respiratory arrest.

“The Knights of Columbus-Luzon Jurisdiction expresses its deep regrets on the death of former President Corazon “Cory” C. Aquino. The Officers and members of the jurisdiction pray for the eternal repose of her soul and extend their heartfelt condolences and sympathy to the bereaved family of the former president,” Arsenio Isidro Yap, State Secretary, stated.

He added that the jurisdiction has invited its members and their families all over Luzon to offer prayers and masses during the month of August for the former President in recognition of her hard work to restore democracy in the country.

“The Luzon Jurisdiction calls on all its 119,000 members and their families all-over Luzon in 218 Districts with 1054 Councils to offer prayers and masses for the late president for the whole month of August, out of love, respect and recognition for her superhuman effort to have democracy restored in our country,” Yap affirmed.

Yap also acknowledged his gratefulness to God for having given the Philippines an exemplary leader.

“We are thankful to God for the gift of a “Cory”, who had pulled us together in unity, in democracy, in the freedom we now enjoy through her bloodless coup, the now famous and internationally recognized phenomenon “The People Power Revolution.”

“To you, Tita Cory, wherever you are, you will always be in the heart of every member of the Knights of Columbus as you epitomize what freedom loving Filipinos yearn for – Democracy. We pray that you will now be with your loving husband free from the aches and pains your mortal body had to endure. Rest now, our country’s Tita and enjoy God’s reward to you, an eternal peace in heaven.”

Meanwhile, the Knights of Columbus Fraternal Association of the Philippines, Inc. (KCFAPI) has also expressed its mourning over Cory Aquino’s demise.

“KCFAPI joins the whole nation in mourning the passing of President Corazon C. Aquino, world icon of democracy and the inspiration for all Filipinos who stand for freedom, responsible leadership and good governance,” said Joseph Teodoro, Officer-in-charge of KCFAPI.

He also said that the Association will always remember “her ex-emplary meaningful life, her love for God and service to our country and people.” (Kate Laceda)

Knights express sorrow on Cory’s passing away

Most Rev. Guillermo D. Afable, DD, Bishop of Digos (center), during the blessing of the new John Paul II Seminary in Digos City last August 4, 2009. The seminary is dedicated to Servant of God John Paul II and in grateful memory of Most Reverend Generoso C. Camiña ,PME,DD, the first Bishop of Digos who initiated the seminary project. KCFAPI donated P100,000.00 to help build the John Paul II Seminary. Joining Bishop Afable in this photo are: Davao FB Associate and Region 11 Insurance Promotion Chairman, Adrian B. Boston, Eastern Mindanao Area Manager and Mindanao State Insurance Promotion Chairman, Fidel B. Blantucas, and Mindanao State Secretary Hernando J. Jordan together with the active Brother Knights in the Diocese of Digos. Mindanao State Membership Director and a member of KCFAPI Board of Trustees, Jose D. Bacalanmo, Jr. (not in photo) also came to witness the momentous event.

The CrossC4 Vol. 13 No. 17August 17 - 30, 2009

CBCP Monitor

The Knights of Columbus Christ the King Council 12342 newly-elected Grand Knight, Basil B. Occeno led the new set of Council Officers for Columbian Year 2009-2010. This photo was taken during the Installation rites given by District Deputy Pepito G. Paradero and District Warden Deomedes L. German last August 8, 2009 at the Christ the King Parish in GSIS Holiday Hills Village, San Pedro, Laguna. Other installed officials of the Christ the King Council are Alfredo M. Bacani, Jr. (Deputy Grand Knight); Mario U. Arevalo (Chancellor); Renato R. Orijuela (Financial Secretary); Quinciano I. Reynon (Treasurer); Bernie G. Rodrigo (Advocate); Ramon C. Mella (Recorder); Priscillo A. Pablo (Warden); Raymundo M. Alkuino (Lecturer); Carmelo J. Crelencia (Inside Guard); Servando A. Alvano (Outside Guard); and three Trustees namely, Reynaldo O. Curabo (1st year); Pedro M. Magsino (2nd year); Roberto S. Calugtong (3rd year). The affair started with a Eucharistic Celebration presided by Rev. Fr. Venancio E. Silva, Parish Priest and Council Chaplain. KC Honor Guards were provided by the Sampaguita Assembly led by its Faithful Navigator SK Angel Macaranas.

Knights build first ever Fr. Willmann chapel in GK VillageFOR several years, many have looked to the Gawad Kalinga project in Tungkong Mangga vil-lage to help piece together their lives.

But now, the people there will soon have greater access to spiritual direction and healing with the addition of a chapel on the village’s premises.

Last July 25, a crew of volunteers went on a mis-sion at the GK village.

Their goal is to build the chapel that will be named after Fr. George J Willmann, KCFAPI founder, and will be dedicated in honor and pa-tronage of Our Lady of Perpetual Help.

The volunteers began the construction last July 11 and they expect to have its completion by Oct. 17, the first anniversary of the 10 houses earlier built by KC Fraternal.

The new 60 square meter facility is being con-structed at the heart of the village in San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan.

KC Philippines Foundation chair and Justice Jose C. Reyes, Jr., said it’s nice to see people working together for a common purpose and goal as they KCFAPI employees during the Gawad Kalinga project last July 25 at GK Village in Tungkong Mangga.

THE Knights of Columbus Fra-ternal Association of the Philip-pines, Inc. (KCFAPI) hosted a meeting for the Area Managers and Team Leaders from Eastern & Central Visayas last August 8, 2009 at the Cebu Service Office in Lahug City.

Joseph P. Teodoro, Vice-Pres-ident of the Fraternal Benefits Group and Gari San Sebastian, Manager of the Fraternal Benefits Services, presided the meeting.

San Sebastian tackled on the first semester sales performance in Cebu as well as the analysis

KCFAPI hosts meeting of Eastern and Central Visayas Area Managers

THE State Officers of the Knights of Co-lumbus Luzon Jurisdiction led by Luzon Deputy Alonso L. Tan made a courtesy call to two prelates close to the jurisdic-tion. They met with His Eminence Gaud-encio B. Cardinal Rosales, Archbishop of Manila last July 25, 2009 at his residence at the Arzobispado de Manila in Intra-muros and with His Excellency Honesto F. Ongtioco, Bishop of the Diocese of Cu-

KC Luzon Officers make courtesy call to prelates

KC Luzon Officers with His Excellency Honesto F. Ongtioco, Bishop of the Diocese of Cubao at the Bishop’s Residence at Lantana, Cubao, Quezon City during their courtesy call last July 28.

bao last July 28 at the Bishop’s Residence at Lantana, Cubao, Quezon City.

Among the main topics of discussion with Cardinal Rosales was the Luzon Policy on redistricting by aligning the composition of the council with that of the Vicariate, this way the councils in a district would be able to move in unison with the programs of the diocese in the vicariate level. It was also reported to

consider it worship and love for other people. “We hope that the residents will make use of the

chapel to draw strength from God as they face the difficult challenges of life,” he earlier said.

The volunteers are mostly employees of the KC Fraternal and its subsidiaries. A set of about 35 volunteers are working on the project every other Saturday.

Residents of the GK village, meanwhile, are grateful for “the blessing” the Knights of Colum-bus has provided for them.

Aside from free houses, Arcille De Marcadel said having a new chapel will definitely boost the faith and relationships of the people in the community.

“The chapel will surely unite us more. May God Bless the Knights of Columbus,” Marcadel said.

In 2008, the KCFAPI built ten houses at said GK site. The ten beneficiary-families came from Pangarap village in Kalookan City who were selected by the GK Community Foundation, Inc. (Roy Lagarde)

and the needed improvements in the performance of the group to increase their sales production. He also discussed on the product positioning and the recruitment targets and trainings of the fra-ternal counselors.

The promotional activities such as the fraternal counselors’ incen-tives and the recognition pro-grams such as the The Outstand-ing Knights of Columbus Awards (TOKCA), Council of Honors, and the Most Outstanding District Deputy were also presented to the KC officials of Cebu.

Bro. Teodoro, on the other hand, discussed the economic opportu-nities of the insurance industries, sales techniques and the sales fore-cast for the second semester.

Area Managers who attended were Bro. Eldito Nabong of the Eastern Visayas Fighters and Bro. Ireneo Guadalquiver of the Central Visayas Boomers.

The Team Leaders from Cebu: Bros. Angelito Lugod, Joel Flordelis and Dennis Cańares and the Fraternal Benefits Associate, Ms. Allen Bohol also participated in the meeting. (Kate Laceda)

KNIGHTS of Columbus Philippines Foundation President, SK Alonso L. Tan, recently announced the 23 new beneficiaries of the scholarship pro-gram of the KC Philippines Foundation and the Knights of Columbus Supreme Council. This brings to 73, the current number of less fortunate but deserving scholars of the foundation for the school year 2009-2010.

Named KC Foundation scholars who will receive P15,000.00 financial assistance per semester are:

Luzon1. Esmerando R. Escoto (Circle 4943 San Barto-

lome, Quezon City)2. Jennica Ann Mae D. Avellanosa (Council 8754

San Rafael, Bulacan)3. Maria Regina O. Trasmañas (Council 13538,

Bucandala, Imus, Cavite)4. Ivan V. Parayno (Circle 4206 Maysilo, Mala-

bon City)5. Eymard D. Siojo (Council 9118 Novaliches,

Quezon City)6. Nikki Ann M. De Mesa (Council 13030 Bugal-

lon, Pangasinan)7. Ruth Arlin C. Gomez (Council 8537 Alicia,

Isabela)

Visayas1. Adrian Andrew B. Banzon (Council 3171

Tacloban City)2. Salvador D. Alba II (Council 12324 Panitan,

Capiz)

Mindanao1. Jellian Paula L. Nacalaban (Council 12550

Iligan City)2. Ma. Janine M. Quiambao (Council 3504 Co-

tabato City)3. Tennessee C. Lloren (Council 12978 Magsay-

KC Foundation names recipients of Collegiate Scholarship Program

say, Misamis Oriental)

While the selected Supreme Council scholars who will be receiving $250.00 financial assistance per semester are:

Luzon 1. Dean Martin M. Garcia (Council 10582

Calumpit, Bulacan)2. Gerald Martinez (Council 14257 Rosario,

Batangas)3. Wally O. Villaflor (Circle 5034 Dasmariñas,

Cavite)

Visayas1. Bernice Marsha F. Reyes (Council 14244 Tal-

isay City)2. Jussel Basanta (Council 8541 Calatrava, Negros

Occidental)3. Jimwell Villanueva (Circle 05110 Dumanjug,

Cebu)4. Nikka Flor P. Pedrosa (Council 13493 Palo,

Leyte)

Mindanao1. Jessa Mae P. Virtudazo (Council 13409 Polo-

molok, South Cotabato)2. Sol George A. Sombilon (Council 12550 Iligan

City)3. Christian S. Maybuena (Council 5907 Cagayan

de Oro City)4. John Mark Anthony Jaraula (Council 5465 Don

Carlos, Bukidnon)

The Knights of Columbus Philippines Founda-tion, which was organized in 1971 by Fr. George J. Willmann, S.J. and funded by KC Fraternal, has already graduated 357 scholars throughout the country. (Denise C. Solina)

the Cardinal the participation of knights in the last June 12 Independence Day Celebration at Kawit, Cavite. The close to 900 strong delegations of knights from Laguna, Batangas, Quezon and of course Cavite made a very good impres-sion in the area. The state officers also reiterated to the good Cardinal their plan to organize councils even in areas where it is thought impossible for one

reason or another.Afterwards, pictures were taken with

the Cardinal who surprised the state officers by wearing his KC barong. Lu-zon Deputy Alonso L. Tan extended an invitation for His Eminence to join the delegation of knights who will attend next year’s Supreme Council Conven-tion to which he responded without any certainty as it always fall within days of

his birthday. A few days later, on July 28 to be ex-

act, the State Officers again led by Luzon Deputy Alonso L. Tan made a cour-tesy call to Bishop Ongtioco, the State Chaplain of the jurisdiction. The good bishop expressed his disappointment on his failure to join the Supreme Council convention due to some conflicts.

Bishop Ongtioco was thankful to the knights for KCFAPI’s contribution to the funds of CBCP of more than seven hundred thousand pesos. This was the first proceed of the 10 million peso Trust Fund called the “Seed of Hope” established for CBCP.

Bishop Ongtioco also aired his con-cerns for the flight of Catechists not only in Cubao but also in other areas where their services is badly needed. The catechists is a vanishing breed more so the volunteer catechists. He wished that somehow the professionals and mem-bers of organizations like the Knights of Columbus would be able to take some time and be a volunteer catechist to help the regular catechists in their assign-ments in public schools where religion is not a regular subject.

The state officers also had several pictures taken with the bishop and our Luzon Deputy also extended his invita-tion to Bishop Ongtioco to once again attend the Supreme Council Convention next year.

The two courtesy calls with the two top leaders of the church in Luzon showed that the church and the jurisdic-tion are one in saying that they need to cooperate with one another on matters not only about faith but also on other matters concerning social problems in their own respective ways. (SK Arsenio Isidro G. Yap)