Iligan’s 2-year wait for Church leader ends as next bishop arrives

ILIGAN CITY—Students lined the streets waving yellow and white flags, the colors of the Church, as they greeted Bishop Jose Rapadas III, the Philippines’ youngest, who would be installed as Iligan bishop, which also covers Lanao del Norte, on Thursday (Sept. 5).

Rapadas was apostolic administrator of Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay, prior to his promotion.

In Kapatagan town, Rapadas was given a welcome befitting a new Church leader by parishioners, priests, nuns, lay ministers and members of the Knights of Columbus.

At the church in Kapatagan, Rapadas kneeled before the Blessed Sacrament facing the altar.

The appointment of a bishop in Iligan was considered a momentous event as the city’s Church has had no leader since the death of Bishop Elenito Galido nearly two years ago.

Rapadas’ convoy was escorted by police and the Army./TSB