YIFI- Diocese of Cortes

22/05/2026

16th General Assembly
📌 Diocese of Iloilo
📆 May 6-9, 2026

“Sustained by Grace,Nurtured by Faith, Sent forth in Mission” (Ephesians 2:8-10)

Attendees:
Rt.RevDenny D. Dapitan
Rev.Fr.Ruben D.Martinez
Rev.Fr. Angel De Francisca IV
Bro.Mario Canda - LIFI
Sis.Arnulfa Dueñas - WOPIC
Clark Colaste - YIFI

05/05/2026

The 19th National Youth Convention (NYC), held on May 1–4, 2026, at Saint Michael and all Angels, Parish of Culasi,Diocese of Antique, gathered youth leaders from dioceses across the country with a shared mission: to strengthen Church programs and to collaboratively shape the future of youth ministry. Held every three years, the convention also serves as a venue for electing the National Youth Executive Council (NYEC) officers, who will serve for the 2027–2029 term.

This year’s convention is anchored on the theme, “Nourished by the Spirit, Bearing Fruits of Renewal” (cf. Psalm 104:30), calling young people to grow in faith and become instruments of renewal in their communities.

The Diocese of Cortes actively took part in this significant gathering by sending three dedicated delegates: Clark Rebuyon Colaste, Diocesan Youth Executive Council (DYEC) President; Jaylord Mellina Cuartero Ranario, Vice President; and Dr. Mick Mars Silvano, Diocesan Council Youth Representative.

Their participation reflects the diocese’s strong commitment to empowering young leaders and contributing to the growth of the Church.



&Progressive

08/03/2026

𝗜𝗡 𝗣𝗛𝗢𝗧𝗢𝗦 | 𝟭𝟮𝘁𝗵 𝗗𝗶𝗼𝗰𝗲𝘀𝗮𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗗𝗶𝗼𝗰𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗖𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗲𝘀

In a spirit of unity, faith, and shared mission, the 12th Diocesan Convention of the Diocese of Cortes was successfully held on March 5, 2026 at the Mission of St. Barnabas in Matho, Cortes, Surigao del Sur. Carrying the theme, “Uphold Life and Dignity of Every Human Person” (1 John 4:16; 1 Corinthians 1:10; Luke 10:37), the convention gathered church leaders, clergy, and lay delegates to reflect on the IFI's mission of promoting the value and dignity of every individual within the community of faith.

Moreover, youth delegates from the 18 parishes and missions of the diocese actively participated in the said synod, demonstrating their commitment to the life and work of the Church. Their presence highlighted the vital role of young people in the continuing mission of the Diocese, as they engaged in discussions and activities that foster collaboration, leadership, and service.

Furthermore, the Youth Representative to the Diocesan Council, Dr. Mick Mars P. Silvano, served as a resource speaker during the second day of the convention prior to its formal commencement. In his session on Parliamentary Rules and Procedures, he emphasized the importance of these guiding principles in ensuring that deliberations and decision-making processes are conducted with clarity, discipline, and accountability—highlighting that such rules exist to maintain “order with purpose.”

Finally, the successful gathering of clergy and lay representatives reaffirmed the Diocese of Cortes’ collective commitment to faithful leadership, participatory governance, and the continued mission of upholding life and the dignity of every human person.

Photos from Clark Colaste

02/03/2026

𝗜𝗡 𝗣𝗛𝗢𝗧𝗢𝗦 | 𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗤𝘂𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗹𝘆 𝗠𝗲𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗼 𝗘𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗢𝗿𝗴𝗮𝗻𝗶𝘇𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 (𝗠𝗘𝗬𝗢), 𝗰𝘂𝗺 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗠𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗦𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗺 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗰𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗦𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗿

To strengthen unity and leadership among young church workers in Mindanao East, the First Quarterly Meeting of the Mindanao East Youth Organization (MEYO), cm Financial Management System and Parliamentary Procedure Seminar, was conducted on February 27–March 1, 2026 at the Parish of Saint John the Baptist in Bag-ong Lungsod, Tandag City. With the theme, “CALLED TO WORSHIP, COMMISSIONED TO SERVE; Upholding Life and Dignity of Every Human Person” (1 John 4:16; 1 Corinthians 1:10; Luke 37:10), the gathering highlighted the shared calling of the youth to remain rooted in faith while actively serving their communities.

Moreover, the event was graced by youth leaders from the 7 Dioceses in East Mindanao" Diocese of Cortes, Cabadbaran, Davao, Diganat, Surigao, Placer, and Diocese of Siargao, together with the PYEC Presidents and representatives from the parishes and missions of the host diocese. Their active participation demonstrated strong inter-diocesan cooperation and a unified commitment to advancing youth ministry programs in the region.

Furthermore, the gathering served as a formal venue to present, deliberate upon, and affirm the General Plan of Action (GPOA) 2026, which outlines the priorities and direction of the organization for the year. In addition, the seminar featured meaningful discussions on the Financial Management System facilitated by Rev’d. Dcn. Maruja M. Doverte and on Parliamentary Procedure delivered by Mr. Mick Mars P. Silvano, EdD-ELT. These sessions equipped the participants with practical knowledge and essential skills in financial stewardship and proper legislative process, ensuring accountable leadership and effective service in their respective dioceses and parishes.

Finally, the successful conduct of the quarterly meeting reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to responsible leadership and faithful service.

Photos from Clark Colaste

29/12/2025

𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐒𝐏𝐄𝐀𝐊𝐄𝐑𝐒 | 𝐘𝐈𝐅𝐈 𝐘𝐄𝐀𝐑-𝐄𝐍𝐃 𝐅𝐄𝐋𝐋𝐎𝐖𝐒𝐇𝐈𝐏 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓

The Youth of Iglesia Filipina Independiente (YIFI) are enlightened by the expertise of their distinguished resource speakers during the 2025 Year-End Fellowship. 𝐌𝐫. 𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐤 𝐑. 𝐂𝐨𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞, 𝐃𝐘𝐄𝐂 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐞𝐧𝐭 of the Diocese of Cortes, leads the “YIFI Orientation,” guiding the youth through the mission and vision of YIFI.

Meanwhile, 𝐃𝐫. 𝐌𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐏. 𝐒𝐢𝐥𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐨, Youth Representative to the Diocesan Council, captivates participants with “Strategies for Accountable Leadership in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” inspiring responsible and forward-thinking leadership. Their talks empower the youth with knowledge, insight, and practical guidance for growth in faith and service.

29/12/2025

𝐘𝐈𝐅𝐈 𝐘𝐄𝐀𝐑-𝐄𝐍𝐃 𝐅𝐄𝐋𝐋𝐎𝐖𝐒𝐇𝐈𝐏 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟓

The Youth of Iglesia Filipina Independiente (YIFI) gather today at the Parish of Saint Andrew the Apostle in Mangagoy for their 2025 Year-End Fellowship. Youth from Mangagoy Parish, San Fernando Mission, and Santa Maria Mission join together for a day full of energy, faith, and unforgettable moments.

The one-day gathering sparks friendship and fun, with activities that inspire and connect everyone. Laughter and learning fill every corner as bonds grow stronger.

Today's fellowship is a joyful celebration of their shared journey in Christ. It’s a day of faith, joy, and lasting memories!

23/12/2025

𝗜𝗡 𝗣𝗛𝗢𝗧𝗢𝗦 | 𝗗𝗬𝗘𝗖 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗣𝗬𝗘𝗖 𝟰𝗧𝗛 𝗤𝗨𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗟𝗬 𝗠𝗘𝗘𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚v

The Youth of Iglesia Filipina Independiente, Diocese of Cortes, held its 4th Quarterly Meeting on December 22, 2025 at the Church of Saint Paul, Sabang Mission, Poblacion, Cortes, Surigao del Sur. Carried under the theme, “Called to worship, commissioned to serve: towards building up the body of Christ and equipping the saints through international discipleship” (Eph. 4:12–13 / 1 Cor. 12:12–27), the meeting marked the final diocesan youth assembly for the year 2025.

The gathering brought together the Diocesan Youth Executive Council (DYEC) Officers and Parish Youth Executive Council (PYEC) Presidents from 19 missions and parishes across the Diocese of Cortes, serving as the year-end highlight of coordinated youth leadership and diocesan participation.

Photo by Clark Colaste, Jhonrie Caingles

14/12/2025

𝗜𝗡 𝗣𝗛𝗢𝗧𝗢𝗦 | 𝗠𝗜𝗡𝗗𝗔𝗡𝗔𝗢 𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗧 𝗬𝗢𝗨𝗧𝗛 𝗢𝗥𝗚𝗔𝗡𝗜𝗭𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝟰𝗧𝗛 𝗤𝗨𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗟𝗬 𝗠𝗘𝗘𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚 & 𝗔𝗡𝗡𝗨𝗔𝗟 𝗚𝗜𝗙𝗧-𝗚𝗜𝗩𝗜𝗡𝗚

The Mindanao East Youth Organization convenes its 4th Quarterly Meeting and Annual Gift-giving at Dungon Chapel, Brgy. Calubihan, Banay-Banay, Davao Oriental, held from December 12–14, 2025. 31 Youth leaders from the seven dioceses gathered in a spirit of unity, fellowship, and shared mission, strengthening their commitment to youth service and faith-filled leadership.

Representing the Diocese of Cortes were the Diocesan Youth Executive Council (DYEC) President, Treasurer, and Auditor—Sir Clark Colaste, Jaylord Ranario, and JhonRie Caingles II, who actively participated in the meeting and outreach activities. Also, the event was under the guidance of Rt. Rev. Patrick J. Mabalacad, Diocesan Bishop, with Rev. Fr. Michel John Linao as Youth Chaplain and Rev. Dcn. Realyn Raz as minister of Dungon Chapel of the Davao Diocese, marking it by formation and service.

As an expression of compassion and solidarity, grocery items were distributed to 35 families, along with school supplies for 120 children in the community. This meaningful initiative was made possible through the generous contributions of the Diocesan Bishops of the seven dioceses, extended through their respective parishes and missions. With grateful hearts, the Mindanao East Youth Organization continues its journey, united in faith, strengthened by service, and inspired to bring hope to communities.

Photos from Clark Colaste

14/06/2025

𝗜𝗡 𝗣𝗛𝗢𝗧𝗢𝗦 | 𝗗𝗬𝗘𝗖 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗣𝗬𝗘𝗖 𝟮𝗡𝗗 𝗤𝗨𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗟𝗬 𝗠𝗘𝗘𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚

The 2025 2nd Quarterly Meeting of the Diocesan Youth Executive Council (DYEC) Officers and Parish Youth Executive Council (PYEC) Presidents was successfully held last June 13–14 at the Mission of The Ascension of Our Lord in Salvacion, Bayugan City, Agusan del Sur. Youth leaders from across the Diocese of Cortes gathered to strengthen fellowship, align mission efforts, and share best practices for parish youth ministry. The fruitful encounter was marked by vibrant discussions, spiritual reflection, and a renewed sense of commitment to serving the young Church.

Spearheaded by the DYEC President, Sir Clark Colaste, the two-day event created a nurturing space for dialogue and planning. It also served as a venue to evaluate past activities, strategize for upcoming diocesan programs, and address current challenges faced by youth leaders in their respective parishes. Through shared wisdom and collaboration, the meeting affirmed the vital role of young people in the life of the Church.

The Mission of The Ascension of Our Lord warmly welcomed the delegates, offering a peaceful and spirit-filled atmosphere throughout the gathering. This experience not only empowered the youth leaders but also deepened their commitment to their calling as servant-leaders in faith. As one family in Christ, the Diocese of Cortes continues to journey forward—united, inspired, and mission-driven.

Photos from Sir Clark Colaste

05/05/2025

𝘽𝙐𝘽𝙊𝙉
By Dr. Mick Mars P. Silvano

I wasn’t sure if I would join this year’s Diocesan Youth Summer Camp. Caught in the whirlwind of work-related preparations for upcoming events, I contemplated backing out. After all, I missed last year’s camp too, my younger sister’s debut kept me home. Time, it seemed, was always asking me to choose.

But something within tugged at me. At the last minute, I packed my things, hopped on a bao-bao with three others, and rushed to catch up with the camp already on its third day. I didn’t know then that a humble source of water, a bubon, would bring more than just physical refreshment. It would revive memories, spark connections, and teach me lessons I didn't expect.

The camp was held in San Isidro, Loreto, Agusan del Sur, a place where water is precious and scarce. Every drop mattered whether it's used for brushing teeth, taking a bath, or cooking meals. You learn quickly not to waste what others struggle to find.

In search of water, I found a deep well—a bubon, as we call it in our barangay in Buenavista, Tandag. It stood there, unassuming yet vital. I washed myself there morning and night, the cold water stinging and soothing all at once. Each splash reminded me of childhood days when we played around the bubon with our friends, unaware of how precious those moments and that water were.

This bubon in San Isidro became more than a well. It became a meeting place, a memory trigger, a storybook. Fellow YIFI members who are young, curious, and vibrant, gathered around it. We laughed, shared stories, and bonded over the basic act of fetching water. In those simple moments, friendships were forged, and barriers dissolved.

There, at the heart of a remote camp, we were reminded that water is life regardless of its clarity or scent. 𝘐𝘯 𝘪𝘵𝘴 𝘴𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘤𝘪𝘵𝘺, 𝘸𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘣𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦: 𝘪𝘯 𝘧𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘱, 𝘪𝘯 𝘳𝘦𝘧𝘭𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯, 𝘪𝘯 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘸𝘦 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘦 𝘷𝘢𝘭𝘶𝘦𝘥.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝘂𝗯𝗼𝗻 𝗴𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘂𝘀 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝘄𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗿. 𝗜𝘁 𝗴𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘂𝘀 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻. 𝗔𝗻𝗱 𝗶𝗻 𝗶𝘁𝘀 𝗾𝘂𝗶𝗲𝘁, 𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗱𝘆 𝗳𝗹𝗼𝘄, 𝗶𝘁 𝘄𝗵𝗶𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘁𝗿𝘂𝘁𝗵: 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲𝘀, 𝘄𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝗳𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗵𝗲𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗹 𝗶𝘀𝗻’𝘁 𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗼𝗿 𝗻𝗲𝘄, 𝗯𝘂𝘁 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗱𝗲𝗲𝗽, 𝗳𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗿, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗾𝘂𝗶𝗲𝘁𝗹𝘆 𝘄𝗮𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗱.

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Photo: San Isidro, Loreto Parish
Pubmat: Mark Brian B. Lagrio

01/05/2025