Philippine Bishops Conference to award non-profit committed to building and beautifying churches in the country

The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines will confer the Bishop Jorge Barlin Golden Cross Award to Mrs. Noemi Saludo, the President and Founder of Bahay ng Diyos Foundation, Inc. (BDF), in recognition of her contribution to the Church’s mission, especially in the construction of churches across the country.

The award ceremony will take place on July 1, 2025, at St. Joseph Cathedral Shrine in Tagbilaran City, Bohol, during the opening day of the CBCP Holy Retreat and National Synodal Consultations.

According to Archbishop Gilbert Garcera of Lipa, Saludo’s tireless efforts to assist churches have significantly contributed to the growth and strengthening of the faith among the people, particularly through the establishment of worship spaces where Christian communities gather in unity.

“Your vision and leadership in establishing a foundation dedicated to serving the spiritual and material needs of our community truly embody the spirit of Christian charity and selfless devotion,” said Archbishop Garcera in his message.

The Archbishop highlighted that the example set by Saludo and the BDF reflects the true mission of a disciple who inspires the Christian community.

CBCP President, Pablo Virgilio Cardinal David, noted that this recognition is a gesture of gratitude for Saludo’s continued collaboration with priests, bishops, and pastoral leaders in building and restoring churches throughout the country.

“In honoring her today, we pay tribute not only to a woman of competence and integrity but also to one whose quiet but enduring commitment has helped build the physical and spiritual foundations of countless Catholic communities throughout the Philippines,” said the Cardinal.

Bahay ng Diyos Foundation is a non-profit organization in the Philippines with the primary mission of assisting in the repair and beautification of churches and other liturgical spaces nationwide.

In 2022, Saludo was also awarded the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice Award by the Archdiocese of Lipa for her dedicated service to the Church.

Named after the first Filipino priest to be ordained bishop, the Bishop Jorge Barlin Golden Cross Award is given by the CBCP to laypersons and Church servants who have made significant contributions to the life and mission of the Catholic Church in the Philippines.