Pro-Poor Activist Bishop to Head Commission on Social Action and Caritas Philippines

Bishop Gerardo Alminaza of the Diocese of San Carlos, on the island of Negros in the Philippines known for his consistent advocacy for justice, peace, and environmental stewardship has been elected to lead two major ecclesiastical offices in the country: the Episcopal Commission on Social Action, Justice, and Peace, and Caritas Philippines.

The announcement was made during the 130th Plenary Assembly of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), held in Anda, Bohol.

Bishop Alminaza succeeds Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo of Kidapawan, who led Caritas Philippines and the commission since 2019.

Bishop Alminaza is widely regarded as one of the Church’s most outspoken voices for the poor and marginalized.

He has long been involved in social action, particularly in relation to agrarian struggles, the oppression of Indigenous peoples,and the ongoing militarization on Negros Island.

Following his appointment, Bishop Alminaza emphasized his commitment to continuing the mission of promoting human dignity and uplifting the lives of those on the margins of society.

In 2023, Bishop Alminaza was among the Church leaders who were red-tagged due to his strong advocacy for human rights and peace. Despite this, he remained firm in his mission.

His election comes at a critical time, as the Church in the Philippines faces increasing challenges such as red-tagging, poverty, displacement, and climate change.

Caritas Philippines, the Church’s national humanitarian and development arm, works closely with diocesan social action centers across the country and represents the Philippine Church in the global Caritas Confederation.

As its new president, Bishop Alminaza is expected to lead efforts focused on poverty alleviation, ecological protection, disaster response, and peacebuilding.

The CBCP Episcopal Commission on Social Action, Justice, and Peace coordinates the Church’s nationwide response to issues of injustice, human rights violations, and systemic poverty. It serves as a vital voice in the Church’s moral and social engagement with society.

As Bishop Alminaza assumes this dual leadership role, many Church groups and civil society leaders express hope that his example and vision will inspire a renewed commitment to the Church’s mission of compassion, justice, and peace especially for the least, the lost, and the last.