Philippines – The Province of Philippines North celebrates Province Day
Calamba City, the Philippines – November 2023 – Salesians from the Province of Philippines North (FIN) celebrated Province Day on Monday, 27 November. It was an opportunity to meet and to honour the jubilees of first professions and priestly ordinations of different Salesians. Mass at the Shrine of Mary Help of Christians in Calamba City, was presided over by Fr Gerardo Martin, FIN Provincial, and concelebrated by the Salesians who celebrated their respective jubilees. During the homily, Fr Larry Tan, who was celebrating his 70th birthday on this day and 50 years since his first profession, recalled the day of their first professions, held in the same Shrine. The day was also an opportunity to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Province of Philippines North and for this reason the theme chosen was: "From 60 to inFINity". After a moment of prayer, the jubilarians received a gift of the busts of Don Bosco and commemorative plaques, before everyone moved to the gym at Don Bosco College for an evening of music, sports and many other activities. Finally, Fr Martin took the opportunity to convene the next Provincial Chapter, choosing Fr Alexander Garces, Rector of the parish of San Ildefonso, as moderator.