11/03/2026
REV. MSGR. WALTER DE ASIS CERBITO
(THE GOLDEN ERA: THE LEGACY OF A VISIONARY SHEPHERD)
A tribute to his Golden Sacerdotal Anniversary
Rev. Msgr. Walter De Asis Cerbito
Former Vicar General of the Diocese of Catarman
The history of Our Lady of the Assumption Parish in Lavezares is inextricably linked to the transformative presence of Rev. Msgr. Walter De Asis Cerbito. His tenure was not merely a period of administration, but a spiritual movement that reshaped both the landscape of our town and the souls of its people.
Finding the Roots of a Shepherd
While Monsi Walterโs impact was deeply felt in Lavezares and across the Diocese, his journey began elsewhere. Recent historical research and inventory efforts within the Diocese of Catarman identified crucial details regarding his early life. Born in Brgy. Manering in Catubig, Northern Samar, Monsi Walter was the son of a schoolteacher, a background that likely fostered his lifelong dedication to formation and education. His pastoral roots were also deeply personal, leading back to a visit to his native barangay in Anongo, further mapping the journey of a man who would become a pillar of faith in Northern Samar.
The Journey into the Heart of Lavezares
Monsi Walterโs mission in Lavezares began with a deep immersion into the lives of the parishioners through Community Organizing Preparatory Action Research (COPAR). I was then a highschool student and a newbie catechist, quietly following in his footsteps as he journeyed from one barangay to another. He led a dedicated teamโincluding Ate Nancy Laodenio, Uncle Nonoy Martires, Uncle Etang Jesus Adtiatico and Kuya Rodel Cuyco, who was tasked with the meticulous work of constructing the historical timeline of Lavezares.
I watched in awe as he engaged in humble dialogue with the people. I remember the simplicity of those days: walking the long roads and sharing meals of "udong na may salmon" provided by the parishioners. It was in these moments of profound hospitality that Monsi Walter was not just researching our past, but actively writing the most significant chapter of our present.
Revitalizing the Spirit and the Sanctuary
Under his guidance, the parish experienced a total renewal. He reorganized the Basic Ecclesial Communities (BEC)โour Digtoy na Katilingban san Singbahan (DKS)โand reformed the pastoral councils in every chapel. He breathed new life into the Pastoral Ministry formation, specifically focusing on the Catechists, Parish Youth, Choir, Lay Ministers, Lilies of the Eucharist, and the Lavezares Knights of the Altar.
His vision for the parish was so expansive that he proposed the Church Expansion of Lavezares. A physical reminder of this ambitious vision stands today in the form of the posts donated by Manuel Ubas Sr., marking the beginning of a larger home for our growing community of believers.
Iconic Landmarks:
Also in his guidance and through the immense generosity of Atty. Ramon Cuyco and Family, two of the most famous religious landmarks in Lavezares were constructed:
The Risen Christ in Miol-biol (Brgy. Balicuatro): A towering image of hope that serves as a spiritual beacon for the community.
Nuestra Seรฑora de Salvacion (Lavezares Bay): Established to protect the townโs fishermen and motorboats. The Patroness stands as a guardian for all those journeying between the island barangays and neighboring towns.
The Founder of Devotion
Msgr. Walterโs impact was not limited to the physical or the social; also sought to center the community on the Triune God.
Devotion to the Blessed Holy Trinity: He introduced a profound spiritual focus on the mystery of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, teaching the parishioners to find unity in the Trinity.
Adorers of the Most Holy Trinity: This devotion was not fleeting; it blossomed into a formal religious organization. Through this group, he fostered a culture of perpetual adoration and deep prayer, ensuring that the "heartbeat" of the parish remained spiritually grounded.
The Architect of Faith
Msgr. Walterโs vision reached into every corner of the parish:
In Brgy. Sabang Tabok, Sittio Bunga: He initiated the construction of the chapel dedicated to St. Isidore the Farmer.
In Brgy. Libas: He proposed the sanctuary dedicated to the first Filipino saint, San Lorenzo Ruiz.
Luminous Park: Established through the generosity of Lavezaresnon donors, featuring life-size images of the Five Luminous Mysteries and the Candle Chapel housing the replica of Nuestra Seรฑora de Salvacion.
Lavezares Catholic Memorial Cemetery: He oversaw its beautification, a project thoughtfully designed by Mr. Allan Sibayan.
A Final Act of Love
Even as his term drew to a close, Monsi Walterโs zeal did not waver. On September 28, 2010, just weeks before his term ended in October, he initiated the celebration of the Feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz de Manila. By honoring the first Filipino saint and the patron of Filipino catechists, he left the parishโs educators with a powerful spiritual legacy to carry forward.
A Personal Tribute
To Rev. Msgr. Walter De Asis Cerbito: Thank you for allowing us to walk beside you during those formative years. Your dedication to the history and the people of Lavezares, and your enduring connection to your roots in Catubig and San Vicente, has left a "Pitad" (footprint) that time will never erase. You taught us that true leadership is found in the dialogue of the barangays and the shared warmth of a humble meal.
By: Ann-Jill Dineros
Sources:
History of Our Lady of the Assumption Parish Lavezares, Northern Samar "Pitad"
Identifying, Rescuing and Inventory of Cultural Heritage, Diocese of Catarman.
