Knights of Columbus 10397 Guinobatan Council

17/08/2026

✨ Guinobatan Council 10397 Honor Guards at Joroan Fiesta Mass ✨

On August 16, 2026, the Honor Guards of Knights of Columbus Council 10397 graced the Joroan Fiesta Mass, standing in solemn duty and devotion.

👥 Honor Guards Present:
1. GK Napoleon Camba
2. FN Francisco Toscano Jr.
3. PFN Anthony Vitalicio
4. FS Francis Padilla
5. DD Lowell Tolosa
6. SK Rogelio Tonelada
7. SK Tirso Moral
8. SK Leonardo Palacio
9. SK Romeo Casten
10. SK Treas Albert Velasco
11. SK Leo Ravago

They not only served during the Mass but also stood guard over the relics of Blessed Michael McGivney, marking a historic moment for both the Joroan Church and the council.

This same brotherhood of men had earlier been part of the Guinobatan Town Fiesta Concelebrated Mass for Our Lady of the Assumption—the first time in church history that Knights crossed swords to welcome the celebrators and municipal officials, including Mayor Ann Y. Onjoco, Vice Mayor Rogelio G. Rivera, and the Sanggunian Bayan Councilors. No other town fiesta had witnessed such a welcome, making Guinobatan’s celebration truly one of a kind.

While other councils admired the strong presence of Guinobatan’s Honor Guards in Joroan, the same historic service in Guinobatan itself was more quietly received. Yet, this humility only highlights the Knights’ deeper commitment: serving faithfully without seeking recognition, embodying the true spirit of Charity, Unity, and Fraternity.

As Honor Guards, we were entrusted with a grace beyond measure — to stand in solemn duty during the Mass in honor of Our Lady of Joroan and Blessed Michael J. McGivney, presided by Rev. Fr. Joseph Salando.

At the heart of this celebration was the relic of our founder, encased in its sacred reliquary. The inscription read: “Beati Michaelis McGivney Sacerdotis et Fundatoris Equites a Columbo Ex ossibus” — “Blessed Michael McGivney, priest and founder of the Knights of Columbus, from the bones.”

To witness and guard this relic was not simply ceremonial. It was a living reminder of the mission we carry: Charity, Unity, and Fraternity. In that moment, we felt the union of local devotion to Our Lady of Joroan and the global fraternity founded by McGivney.

Our presence was not about recognition but about humility — standing as guardians of faith, entrusted with something sacred. This encounter calls us to serve with dignity, devotion, and fidelity, embodying the spirit of the Order in every act of brotherhood.

These two sacred events — in Joroan and in Guinobatan — together showcased the Knights’ mission: in service to one, in service to all. Their dedication to the Church and council as a living testament of faith, fraternity, and service.

15/08/2026

✨ Diocese of Legazpi 75th Jubilee & Solemnity of the Assumption

The Diocese of Legazpi continues to rejoice in its 75th Jubilee year, a milestone of grace and mission. On August 15, 2026, the faithful of Guinobatan gathered at Our Lady of the Assumption Parish for the Holy Fiesta Mass, coinciding with the Solemnity of the Assumption of Mary.

📖 Mass Readings
The liturgy was enriched by the Word of God:
- Revelation 11:19; 12:1-6, 10 — the vision of the woman clothed with the sun, symbolizing Mary and the Church.
- 1 Corinthians 15:20-26 — Christ as the “firstfruits” of the resurrection, conquering death.
- Luke 1:39-56 — Mary’s Magnificat, proclaiming God’s greatness and mercy.

✝️ Homily Reflections
The homily emphasized the reality of discipleship: “If you want to follow me, deny yourself, take up your cross daily, and follow me.”
- Technology for good: Use modern tools wisely, but always give time for the Word, for “the truth will set us free.”
- Simplicity of Mary: Material things are loaned to us; Mary’s humility shows us how to live with Christ.
- Justice and creation: Listen to the cries of the poor and the earth, becoming instruments of peace.
- Peacemakers: Be sanctuaries of peace amid worldliness, not just peace lovers.
- Hope in the Assumption: Mary’s Assumption assures us of our destiny in God’s Kingdom, echoing Jesus’ promise: “I went ahead of you and prepared a place for you.”

⚔️ Knights of Columbus Honor Guards
The celebration was dignified by the presence of 13 Honor Guards of the Knights of Columbus, who stood as visible witnesses of faith and fraternity.
Led by Warden Leo S. Ravago (violet sword band, center), the lineup included:
➡️ GK Napoleon Camba
➡️ SK Tirso Moral
➡️ DD Lowell Tolosa
➡️ SK Leonard Palacio
➡️ FS Francis Padilla
➡️ DGK Marlon Dy
➡️ SK Niño Jesus Orbeta
➡️ SK Rogelio Tonelada
➡️ SK Romeo Casten
➡️ PGK PFN Anthony Vitalicio
➡️ PGK FN Francisco Toscano Jr.
➡️ SK Treas Albert Velasco

Their presence embodied the values of Charity, Unity, Fraternity, and Patriotism, adding solemnity to the parish fiesta and Jubilee year.

The Assumption of Mary and the 75th Jubilee of the Diocese of Legazpi together remind us that our mission is to walk with Christ daily, in simplicity and service. Guided by Mary’s example and strengthened by the fraternity of the Knights, we continue to proclaim: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord.”

08/08/2026

📣 Knights of Columbus Council 10397 Receives Star Council Award! 🏆

Guinobatan, Albay – Knights of Columbus Our Lady of Assumption Parish Council 10397 in Guinobatan was awarded the distinction of Star Council, the international organization’s top honor for local councils.

The Star Council Award recognizes overall excellence in the areas of:
✨ Growing membership
✨ Promoting Knights of Columbus insurance benefits
✨ Sponsoring Catholic faith formation programs
✨ Volunteering time through service-oriented activities

This honor was achieved under the leadership of the 2024–2026 set of officers, with PGK SK Francisco C. Toscano Jr. serving as Grand Knight during the fraternal year 2025–2026. Their programs and accomplishments strengthened parish life and community outreach, living out the principles of Charity, Unity, and Fraternity.

As we celebrate this achievement, Council 10397 now moves forward under the guidance of Grand Knight SK Napoleon N. Camba (2026–2027) and the newly elected officers, continuing the mission of serving God, the Church, and the community with excellence.

Membership in the Knights of Columbus is open to men 18 years of age or older who are practicing Catholics in union with the Holy See. For information on joining the Knights of Columbus, contact our Membership Director.

🙏 Congratulations to the 2024–2026 officers and members of Council 10397 for this outstanding achievement, and blessings to the current officers as they carry the torch of service forward!

01/08/2026

🧹 Church Premises Clean‑Up – Part 1
At 7:00 AM today, our brothers gathered to clean and refresh the parish surroundings — trimming trees, picking grass, gathering fallen leaves, and removing excess soil.

🌟 This marks the first activity of the newly elected council officials for 2026–2027, led by GK Napoleon N. Camba and DGK & Program Director Jose Marlon B. Dy.

📅 This clean‑up will now be a monthly activity every 1st Saturday, continuing next week with trimming grass, paving missing segments around the statue, revisiting the 10 Commandments sign, and maintaining the council signboard — part of the legacy of FN Anthony Vitalicio and GK Francisco Toscano Jr.

🧱 Brothers Lowell Tolosa, Samson Millares, Francis Padilla, Napoleon Camba, Marlon Dy, and Albert Velasco each donated 1 bag of cement to be used for next week’s paving work.

🌿 Brother Jean Oliquiano will also bring his grass cutter, with gasoline sponsored by the council, ensuring the grounds are well maintained.

🎹 Worth noting: the old wooden organ/piano stand has been replaced with a new metal version, generously donated by GK Napoleon Camba, now used by our piano man Brother Romeo Talan.
🙌 We continue to encourage all brothers to participate in these monthly clean‑up drives. Your presence not only strengthens our fraternity but also increases our visibility within the Church and the wider community — showing that Knights of Columbus stand as men of faith and service.

💪 Truly, the work of service and fraternity continues!

26/07/2026

Today’s Mass, presided by Rev. Fr. Gerald Aroyo, draws us into the wisdom of Scripture and the mission of the Knights of Columbus.

In 1 Kings 3:5, 7‑12, Solomon humbly asks not for riches or long life, but for wisdom to govern God’s people. His prayer reminds us that true leadership is rooted in discernment and service — values we uphold as Knights, seeking guidance to lead with justice and compassion.

The Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 119) proclaims: “Lord, I love your commands.” This love for God’s law reflects our commitment to Charity and Unity, living not by convenience but by conviction, delighting in the path of righteousness.

In Romans 8:28‑30, St. Paul assures us that “all things work for good for those who love God.” As Knights, we trust that our fraternity and sacrifices are woven into God’s greater plan, shaping us into faithful servants called to His purpose.

Finally, in Matthew 13:44‑52, Jesus compares the Kingdom of Heaven to a hidden treasure and a pearl of great price — worth giving up everything to possess. This challenges us to live with courage and Patriotism, placing God’s Kingdom above worldly gain, and dedicating ourselves to service that reflects eternal values.

⚜️ Guided by wisdom, strengthened by unity, and inspired by the treasure of faith, we continue our mission as Knights of Columbus — men of Charity, Unity, Fraternity, and Patriotism.

04/06/2026

– Brigada Eskwela 2026 at MORMS

With brooms, dust pans, shovels, and spades in hand, hammers and tools at the ready, Brother Knights of Council 10397, together with Council 18858 and Assembly 3621, joined alumni, faculty, and volunteers to prepare Marcial O. Rañola Memorial School for the upcoming school year.

💪 Their united efforts included:
- Clearing volcanic ash from pathways for safe student walkways.
- Sweeping fallen leaves and tidying the grounds.
- Repairing classroom items to restore learning spaces.
- Mixing concrete for pavements and donating cement to strengthen school facilities.
- Clearing grass in gardens to refresh the environment.

🤝 This initiative was coordinated by Brother Mark Joseph Secretario, DD Lowell Tolosa, and GK Francisco C. Toscano, in close partnership with the dedicated MORMS faculty. Their leadership ensured that manpower, tools, and tasks were well‑organized, maximizing the impact of every volunteer’s contribution.

🍴 To keep spirits high, snacks were generously sponsored by fellow Brother Knights, with additional support from SK Marlon Dy & SK Rogelio Tonelada whose canteen is situated inside the MORMS grounds. This gesture of hospitality added warmth and fellowship to the day’s hard work.

🌟 The collaboration between Council 10397, Council 18858, Assembly 3621, alumni, faculty, and local partners exemplifies the values of Charity, Unity, and Fraternity. By working hand in hand, they not only restored classrooms and facilities but also strengthened bonds within the community, proving once again that service is at the heart of brotherhood.

30/05/2026

09/05/2026

✨ Heralds of Hope: Lighting the Path for Tomorrow ✨

As we gather for this convention, we are guided by the Word:

📖 Acts 16:1‑10 – The Spirit leads us to new horizons.
🎶 Psalm 100:2,3,5 – Serve the Lord with gladness.
🌟 Colossians 3:1 – Seek the things above.
✝️ John 15:18‑21 – Stand firm in discipleship, even amidst challenges.

Together, we embrace our mission as Knights of Columbus—living out Charity, Unity, Fraternity, and Patriotism.

Council 10397 proudly serves as Honor Guards, exemplifying dignity and devotion, while councils from across Bicol stand united in brotherhood. This convention is not just a gathering, but a beacon of hope—lighting the path for tomorrow through service, learning, and fraternity.

Let us walk forward as true Heralds of Hope, carrying the light of faith and the strength of brotherhood wherever we go. ⚜️

23/04/2026

Rest in Peace
SK Pedro E. Gallarte

20/04/2026

Grand Knight Francisco Toscano Jr
Faithful Navigator Anthony Vitalicio