Quezon City, Philippines. In a historic first for the organization, Kapatirang Claretiano, Inc. (KCI) held a formal Rites of Installation for its new Board of Trustees (BOT) on Friday, September 19, 2025. This significant event, hosted at the Provincial Curia, formalized the new leadership and strengthened the organization’s bond with the Claretian Missionaries.
The KCI delegation was welcomed by the Provincial Government of the Claretian Missionaries – Fr. Rhoel Gallardo Province, including Provincial Superior Fr. Amador Tumbaga, CMF, Fr. Arvin Bellen, CMF, and Fr. Julius Jose Coching, CMF. The presence of Fr. Pedro Belderrain, CMF, the General Prefect of Apostolate, made the occasion even more special.
The program began with a warm kumustahan, allowing members to reconnect. Perds Sumampong, a member of the Council of Elders, delivered an opening message. He emphasized the importance of KCI’s continued alignment with the Claretians as a way of giving back for their formation.
Fr. Ama Tumabaga presided over the Installation Rites for the 2025-2026 BOT:
- Angel Ermie Lord Malibunas (President)
- Nash Ryan Arcenal (Vice President)
- Dr. Eric L. Malabanan (Secretary)
- Dr. Noel Asiones (Treasurer)
- Fr. Joselito Borja (Member)
- Atty. Glenn Eric L. Peralta (Member)
- Edgardo Tagum (Member)
After the oath-taking, Perds Sumampong, representing former KCI President Fr. Orly Cantillon, symbolically turned over the KCI Constitution and By-Laws to the new president, Gel Malibunas.
In his acceptance message, Gel Malibunas affirmed that the missionary spirit of the organization is truly alive. He highlighted the board’s commitment to using their diverse talents to support the mission. Following this, Fr. Pedro Belderrain and Fr. Ama Tumabaga expressed their gratitude for KCI’s continuous support.
Gel Malibunas then presented the KCI Tactical Plan for 2025, which includes the upcoming 20th Anniversary celebration and a new collaboration with Claret Media for a Sunday evening program. The formal proceedings concluded with a fellowship dinner.
Kapatirang Claretiano, Inc.
Kapatirang Claretiano, Inc. is an association of former Claretian seminarians and priests who are committed to living a life of service and to supporting the mission of the Claretian Missionaries.
by Angel Malibunas
