28/05/2026
OLAS Community Welcomes 23 New Aspirants
Portiuncula Chapel, May 26, 2026 — The Franciscan fraternity rejoiced as 23 young men were formally accepted into the Aspirancy Program during a solemn Acceptance Rite held at the Portiuncula Chapel.
The Eucharistic Celebration was presided over by Br. Joe Litigio, OFM, who, in his homily, reminded the faithful that vocation is a gift rooted in God’s mercy rather than entitlement. He emphasized that true discipleship requires humility, generosity, and self-giving, noting that by placing others first, one becomes an instrument of Christ’s presence and salvation in the world.
During the rite, Br. Kyiel Bueno, OFM, Vocation Animator of the Province, presented the new aspirants to Br. Judee Mar Maquinad, OFM, Aspirancy Director, who warmly welcomed them into the program. As a visible sign of their Franciscan identity and commitment to discernment, each aspirant received the Tau Cross, symbolizing their entry into the Franciscan journey.
The 23 New Aspirants
• Azurich S. Buscano
• Francis Buena
• Mark Andrei Nomo
• John Miralles
• Denmark Mendoza
• Shedrick Angelo L. Garcia
• Dan Labaguis
• Junie Noel Lagutang
• Jefferson Nicolas
• Daikeen Fajilagmago
• Felix Adam Averilla
• Kent Brean Bandal
• Aron Lunday
• MJ M. Moina
• Jhared Delos Santos
• Lance Erum
• Darwin Howell De Guzman
• Mark Clarence Alday
• Doskey Guinyang
• Mark David G. Icalla
• Jinkle Ray M. Atilano
• Henzihcly Miranda
• Ace C. Sy
The 23 new aspirants now join the 18 current aspirants already in formation, strengthening the fraternity’s mission of nurturing vocations and deepening the Franciscan spirit of simplicity, fraternity, and service.
