19/06/2025
He has lived his life to the fullest with his 81 years of existence, an epitome of a leader whose actions spoke louder than his words. He was known to have depth in his principles, decisions, and character.
His foresight, determination, charisma, and wondrous faith catapulted him to his episcopal life, to be an institution in the Diocese of Mati, as he was instrumental in bringing to Mati the different religious congregations, Catholic schools, and institutions.
Moreso, he was highly regarded as the "Father of Social Communications" in the DADITAMA (Davao-Digos-Tagum-Mati) ecclesiastical region because he put up the very first and the only AM radio station in the Diocese (DXHM), and several years later, the Diocese welcomed it's FM radio station, (DXDV), and the first cable service provider in the Diocese, (Trinity cable TV), now extending to its neighboring Diocese, the Diocese of Tagum.
He has been very consistent in giving guidance through the biblical verses "seek ye first the kingdom of God" and "the truth shall set us free".
Like a shepherd to his flock, he was compassionate and sensitive to the needs of his flock, and a forgiving one.
In fulfilling all his responsibilities, he crossed rivers, braved high waters. He was never tired of climbing up mountains and meeting people from all walks of life. He treated his people no differently in instilling the seed of faith, hope, and love.
As there is a time for everything, time came for him to rest from his task. He has served the Diocese for 34 long, very productive, and grace-filled years. He retired when he reached the retirable age of 75.
Despite retirement, the fervor was still there, and he was still cascading the faith while health still allowed him.
He returned home to his Creator on Tuesday, April 13, 2021, at 4:35 in the afternoon.
He left a legacy of pursuing and standing for the truth and fighting evil with goodness.
As he has left with such legacies, his flock is also a living legacy to the kind of leader that he was.
So long, Bp. Pat....reap in heaven the fruits of everything you planted here on earth.
By: Neela G. Duallo
