FORMATION OF FORMATORS 2026

Sixteen formators from the seminaries of the Province of St. Ezekiel Moreno convened for the three-day Annual Formation of Formators held at Villa San Ezekiel in Pansol, Calamba City, Laguna from February 26 – 28, 2026. Representatives from Casiciaco Recoletos Seminary, St. Ezekiel Moreno Novitiate–Recoletos, and Recoletos Formation Center participated in the yearly gathering, which focused on current updates and concerns of the Province’s Formation Apostolate.

The assembly formally opened on February 26, following the arrival of participants in the morning. At 4:00 PM, Fr. Kenneth Onda, OAR, Vicar of the Province and Head of the Secretariat of Initial Formation, delivered the opening message, highlighting the importance of collaboration and fidelity in the ministry of formation. The first day concluded with an input entitled “Reflection on Redi ad Cor” presented by Fr. Bob Cabanag, OAR, Master of Novices, inviting the formators to return to the heart of their vocation as spiritual guides.

Discussions intensified on February 27 as the formators examined the current status and developments in the various stages of formation. Reports were presented by the respective Masters: Fr. Ricky Austria, OAR (Aspirants); Fr. Arian Josef Ocheda, OAR (Postulants); Fr. Paul Demillones, OAR (Pre-Novices); Fr. Bob Cabanag, OAR (Novices); Fr. James Castelo, OAR (Professed); and Fr. Lounal Jarumay, OAR (Interns, RFC). The presentations provided a comprehensive overview of the progress, challenges, and pastoral directions within each stage.

In the afternoon session, Fr. James Castelo, OAR, shared updates on the New Plan of Formation, reflecting on discussions from the recent meeting of the General Secretariat of Formation in Granada, Spain. This was followed by a presentation from Fr. Ian Anthony Espartero, OAR, Prior of Recoletos Formation Center and Director of Recoletos School of Theology, who outlined the requirements for the affiliation of the College Seminary with the Faculty of Philosophy of UST, Manila.

On February 28, the gathering welcomed Bro. Fermin Paniza, OH, a Catholic psychologist, who delivered a timely and relevant input on “Trauma and Abuses: Possible Interventions.” His session offered practical insights and pastoral approaches in addressing sensitive psychological and formation-related concerns. The annual formation concluded with a renewed sense of mission among the participants. Strengthened by shared reflections and collaborative dialogue, the formators return to their respective communities better equipped to accompany the formands of the Province with competence, compassion, and commitment.