08/06/2026
Our hearts and our prayers go out to those who suffered the 7.8 magnitude earthquake that hit offshore of Sarangani at 7:37AM today, June 8, 2026. It was devastating to watch all the videos taken of the earthquake especially those schools that collapsed due to the massive earthquake.
For many of us, this was a day that started full of hope—the first day of classes for the school year 2026-27. Not long after, in helplessness, many witnessed how structures collapsed. From hope to uncertainty: what now?
I was a boy of 8 in 16th July 2026—while in school in Dagupan— when the 7.8 magnitude earthquake hit Luzon. The fear that you felt is not unfamiliar. I assure you, the hope that comes after is even more so! From across the miles, we can offer words of encouragement immediately, and plentiful prayers.
“But we hold this treasure in earthen vessels, that the surpassing power may be of God and not from us. We are afflicted in every way, but not constrained; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed” (2 Corinthians 4:7-9 NABRE).
In behalf of the Parish Community of St. Joseph the Patriarch in Mapandan, Pangasinan, and the Mapandan Catholic School, Inc., we are one with you our brothers and sisters.
(Signed)
Fr. Estephen Mark R. Espinoza
8 June 2026
Parish Priest, SJPP
School Director, MapCS
