Philippine Bishop Cajandig Remembered for Solidarity with Mangyan Indigenous Communities

The Diocese of Calapan marked the first death anniversary of Bishop Warlito I. Cajandig on Oct. 21, remembering his 33 years of pastoral service and his advocacy for poor communities, Indigenous Peoples and environmental protection on the Philippine island of Mindoro.

A concelebrated Mass was held at Sto. Niño Cathedral, presided over by Fr. Peter Andy Lubi, the cathedral’s rector, with six diocesan clergy members. The celebration was followed by the blessing of Bishop Cajandig’s tomb in the cathedral crypt and prayers of commendation.

Bishop Cajandig served as bishop of the Apostolic Vicariate of Calapan for more than three decades, promoting Basic Ecclesial Communities, financial self-sufficiency through a stewardship program and the vision of a Church of the Poor.

He also championed the empowerment of Indigenous Peoples, particularly the Mangyan communities of Mindoro, and encouraged cooperation between the Church and local government units through Care Forums aimed at promoting the common good.

Fr. Lubi described the late bishop as a church leader known for his simplicity and pastoral zeal.

In a social media tribute, Fr. Edwin Gariguez, director of the diocesan Social Action Center, remembered Cajandig as a humble pastor whose life reflected the simplicity of the Gospel, a father’s tenderness and a shepherd’s courage in standing with people facing hardship.

“His preferential love for the poor, especially the Mangyan communities and those living at the margins, was not merely expressed in words but made concrete through his generosity, his solidarity, and his commitment to restoring human dignity,” Fr. Gariguez said.

He added that Bishop Cajandig chose presence over prominence, compassion over judgment and service over power.

Fr. Gariguez also recalled the bishop’s familiar expression, “Pagsusumikapan natin,” meaning “We will strive for it.” He described the phrase as an enduring call to continue Bishop Cajandig’s work for justice, environmental protection and a more compassionate society.

Mindoro, an island in the Philippines’ Mimaropa region, is home to several Mangyan Indigenous communities. Bishop Cajandig’s pastoral priorities placed particular emphasis on their dignity and participation in Church and community life.

“We honor Bishop Cajandig best not merely by remembering him in our prayers, but by continuing the work he entrusted to us: caring for the poor, defending the dignity of Indigenous Peoples, protecting our island home, and building a Church that listens, accompanies, and stands courageously with the people,” Fr. Gariguez said.

He emphasized that Bishop Cajandig’s mission continued through the communities and individuals whose lives had been touched by his leadership.

Social media tributes also recalled the bishop’s pastoral leadership and contributions to the Church and communities across Mindoro.

Bishop Cajandig’s legacy includes strengthening grassroots participation in Church life, promoting the rights and dignity of Indigenous Peoples, and fostering collaboration between Church and government in addressing social concerns.

Fr. Gariguez concluded his tribute with a commitment to continue the late bishop’s mission: “We will remember. We will persevere. Pagsusumikapan natin.”