SARF Palawan Members Celebrate Faith and Fraternity at their 3rd Regional Annual Reunion

Brooke’s Point, Palawan – The spirit of hope and communion shone brightly in Southern Palawan as the Secular Augustinian Recollect Fraternity (SARF) Palawan Region successfully held its 3rd Regional Reunion on October 11, 2025, at the Brooke’s Point Convention Center. Hosted by the Sacred Heart of Jesus High School Chapter, Brooke’s Point, Palawan, the reunion drew members from different chapters for a day of spiritual nourishment, reflection, fraternal bonding, and jubilant celebration under the theme, “Pilgrims of Hope.”

Upon arrival, the atmosphere was filled with excitement and a deep sense of community. Members reconnected, shared stories, and celebrated their shared calling as lay tertiaries of the Order of Augustinian Recollects. This event marked another memorable chapter in the fraternity’s shared journey.

A Sacred Beginning and a Profound Welcome
The gathering began on a high spiritual note with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist, a truly uplifting start. The Mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr. Roy B. Baluarte, OAR, and concelebrated by Rev. Fr. Samuel L. Eyas, OAR, and Rev. Fr. Nestor C. Raras, OAR. Fr. Roy provided a moving homily, elevating the experience and inviting grace to permeate the day. Members were spiritually renewed, ready to embrace the rest of the program with gratitude and purpose.

A highlight of the reunion was the deeply moving Rites of Admittance to the Trial Period and Promise within the Mass. This sacred ceremony, described by attendees as profoundly meaningful and heart-touching, marked a spiritual milestone for those welcomed into the fraternity. As one of the newly admitted members, I found this sacred ritual deeply moving. It symbolized not only our commitment to the fraternity’s values but also the strong bonds that tie us together as brothers and sisters in Christ. The ceremony was a powerful reminder of the trust and responsibility we carry as members of SARF. To be accepted into the SARF Family is a tremendous honor. The promise I made as part of the Third Order of the Augustinian Recollects will forever be etched in my heart and soul.

This solemn acceptance set a beautiful tone of dedicated faith and shared mission, signifying a profound commitment to the Augustinian Recollect charism.

The all-out support of the Augustinian Recollect Family was underscored by the presence of key leaders. This included the SARF Provincial Officers from Manila—led by Sis. Zenaida Lapuz, SAR (Provincial Vice President for Luzon), Sis. Marwin Oane, SAR (Provincial Secretary), and Sis. Evelyn L. Balingit, SAR (Provincial Ex Officio Officer)—alongside the dedicated Spiritual Advisers: Rev. Fr. Roy B. Baluarte, OAR, Rev. Fr. Samuel L. Eyas, OAR, Rev. Fr. Nestor C. Raras, OAR, and Rev. Fr. Antonio Limchaypo, OAR.

Inspiration and Insight for the Journey
The day began with Welcome Remarks by Sis. Carmencita L. Onda, SAR, setting a vibrant tone. The emcees highlighted the Jubilee Year of Hope, reminding everyone that the gathering was not merely a ceremony, but an opportunity to live out the values of SARF.

The morning program continued with an inspiring message from Bro. Edwin T. Ruiz, SAR, SARF Provincial President and Brother General of the Order. Read by Sis. Zenaida Lapuz, SAR, SARF Provincial Vice President for Luzon, Bro. Edwin’s words served as a powerful reminder of the SARF mission and its relevance to the Jubilee Year of Hope.

The program featured dynamic reports from all Chapter Presidents: Sis. Teresita A. Saraza (Brooke’s Point), Sis. Helen C. Lim (Inagawan), Bro. Aquilino B. Cariño Jr. (Puerto Princesa City), and Sis. Cherlita P. Yayen (Taytay). These presentations highlighted the best practices and important activities within each local community, demonstrating a thriving network united by faith and service.

A mid-morning break offered a light interlude for snacks and photos. Participants gathered in chapter groups to capture memories in still images and continued conversations that strengthen the fraternity’s bonds, as well as an opportunity to stretch and mingle before the day’s activities resumed.

After a reflective Mid-day Prayer and Angelus recited by the participants, the group prepared to partake of a sumptuous lunch.

After a delicious lunch and beautiful renditions of vibrant and uplifting songs by singer Ms. Pearl Christine Gaddi, the spiritual guidance continued with an insightful talk from Rev. Fr. Antonio Limchaypo, OAR, who encouraged thoughtful leadership and service within the SARF family. His words of wisdom offered invaluable direction for members navigating their secular lives as disciples of Christ. The session concluded with the giving of a simple token and a Certificate of Appreciation to the speaker as a gesture of gratitude.

Teamwork, Laughter, and Camaraderie
The afternoon session was a true demonstration of the theme “Pilgrims of Hope” in action. The group dynamics and games session broke down barriers and forged stronger ties. Activities like “The Journey Map” encouraged collaboration in visualizing a shared future, while the “Obstacle Course of Hope” tested the members’ ability to communicate, trust, and support each other through challenges.

The hall was filled with laughter, spirited cheers, and genuine camaraderie, proving that the SARF community knows how to celebrate the gift of self with immense joy. Communal singing of the Palawan March and the beautiful tribute song “Santa Magdalena ng Nagasaki” for St. Magdalene of Nagasaki, SARF’s patroness, further affirmed the fraternity’s bond. Attendees thoroughly enjoyed the food, the laughter, the dancing, the games, and the group activities. One of the highlights was the “Soltero” dance, where everyone joined in with enthusiasm and energy, allowing camaraderie and spontaneity to flow freely among all SARF members.

The reunion culminated with a prayer led by Rev. Fr. Roy B. Baluarte, OAR, whose thoughtful words provided a final moment of contemplation and gratitude, sending everyone off with a sense of renewed purpose and hearts full of inspiration for the journey ahead.

As the sun began to set, attendees expressed heartfelt thanks to the organizing committees and participants for making the reunion a memorable beacon of faith and fellowship. The final moments were a blend of warm farewells and hopeful anticipation for future gatherings. Each smile, every handshake, and all the moments of togetherness made the day truly special.

Snacks, songs, and music extended the celebration, allowing for informal interactions and continued camaraderie. The message was clear: the SARF community in Palawan remains a living example of unity, faith, and the enduring hope that guides every pilgrim’s journey.

Looking Forward: A Journey Continues
As we look toward the next reunion, we carry with us the spirit of Pilgrims of Hope: to support one another, to grow in faith and service, and to nurture the bonds that sustain our communities in Palawan and beyond. The event is a powerful reminder of the values we uphold and the friendships that sustain us. Here’s to many more joyful reunions with our fellow SARF members, continuing the legacy of unity and fraternity in Palawan.

The 3rd SARF Palawan Regional Reunion was a powerful affirmation of our shared journey—a successful day that celebrated faith, family, and the enduring spirit of Pilgrims of Hope. May God bless us all until we meet again!