The BINISAYA: SAMAR-LEYTE VERSION (BSLV)

December 3, 2008 (Tacloban City) — Archbishop Jose Palma (of the Archdiocese of Palo, Leyte) presided at the Mass at the launching of the Binisaya: Samar-Leyte Version (BSLV) held at the Sto. Niño Parish in Tacloban City.

Three other bishops of the suffragan dioceses of Palo concelebrated with Archbishop Palma, together with the clergy of the Archdiocese. The three bishops were: Bp. Emmanuel Trance (of the Diocese of Catarman, Northern Samar), Bp. Crispin Vasquez (of the Diocese of Borongan, Eastern Samar) and Bp-Emeritus Angel T. Hobayan (of the Diocese of Catarman). Bp Most Rev. Filomeno G. Bactol, DD (of the Diocese of Naval) was represented by his Vicar General, Rev. Msgr. Silas Florencio, HP.

December 8, 2008 (SSP Makati)—Relatives, friends and well-wishers alike flocked to the Sanctuary of St. Paul the Apostle on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception to join Fr. Armand Tangi, SSP as he celebrated his 25 years of priestly ministry. An array of blue, white and yellow flaglets lined up the main road of the SSP compound that led to the chapel. Fr. Armand has so many visitors that the whole compound was transformed into a huge parking space.

The Mass commenced at 4 o'clock in the afternoon. Priests (both Paulines and diocesesan guests) marched to the altar which was beautifully decorated with white roses. What made the occasion extra special was the presence of Bishop Socrates Villegas, D.D. (Diocese of Balanga) who is a close friend of Fr. Armand.