Our Lady of Peñafrancia Seminary

SANGKAN 4 San Jacinto Seminary, Tuguegarao

2010-10-23T18:29:00.005+08:00

OLPS FOUNDATION DAY

2010-10-15T09:19:00.002+08:00

9:00AM-Mass
Most Rev.Arturo M. Bastes, SVD(Celebrant Preacher)
-Raffle Draw(Papremyo para sa SEMINARYO)
10:30AM-Groundbreaking of Water Refilling Station
11:00AM-Meeting of Friends of Penafrancia
12:00NN-Lunch
1:30PM-Indoor Games for Parents of Seminarians
3:30PM-Outdoor Games for Parents of Seminarians
7:00PM-Basketball Game(Alumni/Priests/Parents)

OLPS ALUMNI HOMECOMING(OCT.16,2010)

2010-10-15T09:05:00.004+08:00

7:00-9:00AM-Registration(PICTURE TAKING FOR ID)
9:00-10:00AM-Motorcade
10:00-11:00AM-Mass at OLPS Chapel
11:00-12:00NN-Business Meeting
12:00-1:00PM-Lunch(By Batch)
1:00-5:00PM-Games
4:30PM-SANO vs. PADI(Basketball)
6:00PM-Socials and Fellowship(c/o Batch'85)

Ordination to the Order of Deacons

2010-09-12T11:31:00.004+08:00

The two newly ordained Deacons of the Diocese of Sorsogon;Rev. Noel Listana & Rev. Philippe Andrew Gallanosa.

Palaro Ng Lahi '10

2010-09-12T11:15:00.002+08:00

Ang bagong katribo na si BRIAN.

VOCATION CAMPAIGN HOLY SPIRIT ACADEMY OF IROSIN FEB 25, 2010

2010-02-27T14:04:00.006+08:00

The Seniors, Fr Edmon and Bro Philippe heartfully thank: Sr Frances Grace, principal of HSAI, and the HSAI for the warm welcome; Frs Entong and Ronnie, parish priest and parocchial vicar of Irosin; and Mr Peter Gallanosa.

May many new vocations come from HSAI this coming academic year!

SENIOR'S RETREAT 15-19 FEBRUARY 2010

2010-02-20T14:43:00.010+08:00

The Seniors together with Frs Totep, Edmon, Arnel and Bro Phippe wholeheartedly thank the following dear persons and benefactors of the Seminary: Fr Rowan Rebustillo, the Retreat Master; Bro Bobby Fraga; the staff of the Balay Buhay sa Uma in San Roque (a jewel amidst the Bulusan Forest): Manoy Mario, Manay Koring, Manay Ome, Manay Josie, Manoy Edi; Sir Sim and Ma'am Luz; Mr Peter Gallanosa, father of Bro Philippe; Fr Entong Buenavides, parish priest of Irosin; and Frs Edu Fulay and Boy Quino, parish priest and parrochial vicar of Bulusan. To all of you, again our dearest and warmest thanks!

OLPS VARSITY VS AEMILIANUM 11.2.2010

2010-02-11T13:29:00.002+08:00

BAMS 2010 MASBATE CITY

2010-02-07T17:03:00.011+08:00

SANGKAN III NOV 26-27, 2009

2009-12-05T21:49:00.015+08:00

Preparing for departure: San Fernando, La Union here we come!

Luzon seminary formators pose for a picture after the opening Holy Mass presided over by the La Union Bishop, His Excellency Most Rev. Artemio L. Rillero, SVD, DD.

Bp. Rillera, a classmate of our Bishop, Bishop Bastes, poses for a group picture with our juniors.

We thank our dear parents, especially those who were with us during the trip.

Introducing the coach, Rev. Fr. Edmon Benzon.

Ok boys, all in!

Sem. Brian De Castro, Dama player.

Sem. Adrian Aquino, dart shooter.

Sem. Jude Celosa, Table Tennis singles 2nd runner up.

Sem. Rodney Yrureta, Pool champion.

The juniors, dancing to the tune of Ayer.

The OLP seminary, 8th place over all (out of 13).

Ok who's next?

Chilling out.

The champion in action.

The challenger prepares a drive.

Sem. Gene Laurinaria, Scrabble player.

Sem. Darren Handig, Chess player.

Nov 27 pm. On our way to Baguio after the Sangkan III.

Our Sangkan III 2009 muses.

We visited the PMA.

The Reyeses.

Sem. Austin Reyes with sister, Angel.

Baguio Cathedral.

Thank you very much po, Fr. Rico! Rector of the Our Lady of Guadalupe Minor Seminary.

INTRAMS 2009

2009-11-06T09:29:00.027+08:00

SANGKAN IV LIPA, BATANGAS SEPT. 25-26, 2009

2009-10-13T14:41:00.009+08:00

Halfway to Lipa, Fr. Totep, Mams Wilma, Ems and April.

A stop for a cup of hot noodles.

Tahanan, hmmm... future seminary of one or some of these boys?

Palace in the sky. No more a palace but still in the sky.

Cathedral of Lipa, after the Grand Opening Holy Mass for Sangkan IV.

Ready to ramble!

Nice Batangueno food.

Sem. Oloms would eventually clinch the fourth place in Table Tennis.

Sem. Jet would also achieve the fourth place in Scrabble.

Our muses to Lipa.

Carmelite Monastery of Mary Mediatrix in Lipa.

Another hmmm... future retreat house for the Seniors?

Sem. CJ, first runner up in Darts.

At Lita's, on our way home to Sorsogon with Pepeng passing us by.

PENAFRANCIA FIESTA SEPT. 19-20, 2009

2009-10-13T10:00:00.008+08:00

We thank the Hermana, Manay Nancy Guirindola, and Celso with his team, for having worked hard during the Fiesta Preparations.

Bro. Philippe Gallanosa, busy at work with the OLPS Schola Cantorum with the able help of Bro. Noel Listana.

The able ladies behind it all, Mama Engs and Sister Myrna.

Fr. Cyben Vitug, busy with the help of the high school and college seminarians in preparing the altar on the Grandstand.

Tha Knights of Columbus, Sorsogon Chapter, as the Honor Guards of our Ina.,

Viva la Virgen de Penafrancia!

Fr. Jun Elegado, preacher and main celebrant.

To Fr. Jun's right was the deacon but now newly ordained priest, Fr. Chrisly, also a Seminary Professor in High School.

Rev. Noel Espaldon, soon to be ordained, helped out.

We thank our organist, Bro. Noel Listana for helping out.

Rev. Edmon, now a newly ordained priest, and Fr. Totep, the Seminary High School Rector, during the Fiesta Mass, Sept. 20, Sunday.

Fr. Cyben concelebrated.

La mesa despues la Misa!

UNANG PAGTITIPON

2009-08-23T13:50:00.008+08:00

Nagpapasalamat kami kina Dondee, Jigu at Ralph sa pagtulong sa pag-aayos ng entablado at kay Mam April sa pagsasaayos nitong palatuntunan: Ang Unang Pagtitipon na iginanap noong nakaraang biyernes ika 21 ng Agosto 2009 sa loob ng Buwan ng Wika.

Nagbibigay si Rev Edmon ng pambungad na pananalita.

Cj Abraham ang nanalo sa isahang pag-awit.

Ken Guevara at Joseph Dery ang pangatlo sa dalawahang pag-awit. Kinakanta ang orihinal na komposisyon ni Rev Fr Alex Jerus, Love Story ni Pay nan si May.

Mam Lorna, Sister Myrna, Mam April at Mam Wilma.

Ang mga nagkamit ng Best in Responsibilities: Austin Reyes, Mario Botial, Ryan Cortes at Jershom Colico kasama ng kanikanilang mga minamahal na ina.

Jairuz Oliquiano at Oloms Mella, ang mga nanalo sa dalawahang pag-awit.

Ang kasalukuyang presidente ng PTA sa college na si Mr Uy at ang presidente naman ng PTA sa high school na si Mr Oliquiano.

Ang mga nagkamit na mga parangal sa academics sa unang taon: Oliver Gordola, Jershom Colico at Odine Areola.

Ang mga nagkamit ng mga parangal sa academis sa ikalawang taon: Chris Tayam, Ray Mallorca at Ken Guevara.

Ang mga nakamit ng mga parangal sa academics sa ikatlong taon: Arlie Bamiano, Rodney Yrureta at Jude Celosa.

Ang mga nagkamit ng parangal sa academics sa ikaapat na taon: Mark Panelo, Jet Delos Santos at Jairuz Oliquiano.

Ang ikalawang taon: ang mga nanalo sa sabayang pagbigkas.

Ang ating kagalang galang na Rector ng high school, si Rev Fr Totep Erestain, ay nagpapasalamat sa lahat ng tumulong sa pagsaayos nitong palatuntunan at sa lahat ng ating mga minamahal na magulang na nagsipagdalo.

Ang mga nagkamit ng Best Class para sa 1st grading SY 2009-2010: ang unang taon.

Ang ikalawang taon ay naghahanda para sa huling numero nitong Unang Pagtitipon SY 2009-2010.

BIOGAS DIGESTER

2009-08-08T11:48:00.004+08:00

Site for the Biogas Digester project
duly approved by the PTA last General Assembly (August 1, 2009).

More pigs will be arriving.

The actual Biogas Digester site.

Once the Biogas Digester is in full operation, OLPS will be able to save up to 5,000 pesos (2 big Shellanes).

Unlimited gas for the kitchen.

And that's just the beginning. If all goes well, and we hope that they do go well, this Biogas Digester technology may actually be able to supply electricity to the whole OLPS. We may be able, in the future, to put air con in the Chapel, Library and even the Dormitories!

LAUNCHING IN OLPS OF THE YEAR FOR PRIESTS 2009-2010

2009-08-08T11:17:00.004+08:00

The Diocese of Sorsogon officially launched the Year for Priests last August 4, 2009 in OLPS.

The Vicar for the Priests, Mons Gerry del Prado, organized the affair with the able assistance of Mr and Mrs Vitug.

Our very own Sir Ipe (Renovalles) helped in the organization.

Rev Edmon takes a break.

Rev Edmon with Sir Ipe.

Rev Edmon with Mr and Mrs Renovalles.

Frs Nap, Sabin, Jun and Rev Edmon with the participants from the Vicariate of Pilar.

2009-07-24T16:38:00.002+08:00

OLPS VARSITY
The Seminary Varsity will be joining the Sorsogon Juniors Basketball League on August 20 - September 08, 2009. Our varsity basketball team is under the able hands of our own Sano, Coach Aldin V. Ayo (batch 94). We would like to solicit the support of all Sano out there. If you are around Sorsogon please be present during the scheduled games. We would like also to ask for suggestions on the OLPS "moniker" and not only that.... if any generous Sano would like to sponsor the team uniform, it would be highly appreciated. For many years the Seminary has dominated the field of Basketball in Sorsogon but we had been out of the limelight for some time now. Our return to the fields does not promise to bring back the old golden days of Seminary Basketball but at least to have our presence again be felt. And with a dear hope that someday we shall rise and shine again.

ACQUAINTANCE PROGRAM JUNE 26, 2009

2009-07-11T17:08:00.005+08:00

FIRST EXCURSION, PAGURIRAN BEACH (BACON DISTRICT, SORSOGON CITY).

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FIRST GENERAL ASSEMBLY JUNE 13, 2009

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MASS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT JUNE 14, 2009

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Minor seminarians as altar servers.

Very Rev. Fr. Joseph Erestain, the newly installed rector of the OLP Minor Seminary.

Rev. Mr. Edmon Benzon, the newly installed Prefect of Discipline.

The incoming Hermana of the OLPMS, Mrs. Nancy Guirindola, and the outgoing Hermana, Mama Engs Gapayao.

College seminarians as the choir.

Installation of Rev. Mr. Edmon Benzon.

Installation of Rev. Fr. Cyben Vitug, Spiritual and Apostolate Director of the OLP Major Seminary.

Installation of Rev. Fr. Rudin Din, Prefect of Discipline of OLP Major Seminary.

Installation of Rev. Fr. Michael Imperial, Dean of Studies of OLP Major Seminary.

Our beloved parents.

Installation of Very Rev. Fr. Joseph Erestain, Rector of OLP Minor Seminary.

Installation of Very Rev. Fr. Felix Elegado Jr, Rector of OLP Major Seminary.

Rev. Fr. Edgar Cleofe concelebrates.

Very Rev. Fr. Joseph Erestain, Rev. Mr. Edmon Benzon and the Bishop of Sorsogon Most Rev. Msgr. Arturo Bastes.

Rev. Fr. Rudin Din, Very Rev. Fr. Antonio Lorilla, the Chancellor, and Very Rev. Fr. Ernie Mendina, Confessor of OLPS.

Rev. Frs. Michael Imperial and Edgar Cleofe.

New Rector

2009-04-13T15:45:00.004+08:00

The new rector of the seminary is no other than the "chinese ambassador": Very Reverend Father Roger Joseph B. Erestain, JCL (OLPS Batch1990-1994). Aside from being the Rector, he serves concurrently as the Vice-Chancellor of the Diocese; a member of the Judicial Board, Seminary Council, and Seminary Board; and the Board secretary of SAPEPAU and GNSFI. He was appointed as OIC Rector of the seminary last Holy Thursday, April 9, 2009. He will assume office at the start of the school year 2009-2010.

Unfortunately, there is only one co-formator assigned in the seminary: Rev. Mr. Edmon Benzon. Rev. Edmon was ordained to the order of deacons just recently (March 26, 2009). The seminary is still waiting for the return of the persons who went on study leave abroad.

Rev. Fr. Jasper D. Valdez, who was the Prefect of Seminarians for the past 5 years, will be assigned as parochial vicar of the Parish of St. Anthony of Padua in Gubat, Sorsogon.

The Candidates for Graduation

2009-03-23T16:08:00.004+08:00

These are the candidates for graduation: Asuncion, Cruz, Deniega, Erestain, Esmeria, Grefalda Goboli, Guillermo, Luchavez, Sia, and Tabuena.

Graduation 2009

2009-03-23T12:06:00.002+08:00

Commencement Exercises 2009
Our Lady of Penafrancia Seminary Chapel
March 28, 2009
9:30 A.M.

You are cordially invited!

Scintilla 2009

2009-03-23T11:58:00.004+08:00

These are a part of the soon to be published scintilla 2009... Your thoughts and comments are very much welcome...

BAMS

2009-02-02T13:01:00.002+08:00

Come February 5-7, 2009, the seminary will be hosting the BAMS (Bicol Association of Minor Seminaries) Meet. The theme of the event will be "Be A Man... Serve!" Unfortunately, there will only be two seminaries, namely, St. Gregory the Great Seminary (Diocese of Legazpi) and St. Anthony Seminary (Diocese of Masbate), which will be coming over because the Immaculate Conception Seminary of the Diocese of Virac will not be able to make it.

pictures, pictures, and more pictures of sangkan III

2008-11-24T21:50:00.011+08:00

the opening ceremonies
(we were once again honored by the presence of an ambassador from China who loves melamine, and were graced also with the presence of the SNHS drum and lyre corps)

the opening mass

the delegates

some images on the preparations for sangkan 3

The Seminary Hosted SANGKAN III

2008-11-24T18:25:00.002+08:00

The annual gathering of Minor Seminaries in the Philippines was hosted by our very own seminary last November 20-21, 2008. There were 12 participating seminaries, namely, San Jacinto Seminary of the Diocese of Cagayan, Mary Help of Christians Seminary of the Diocese of Binmaley, Pangasinan, Immaculate Conception Seminary of Archdiocese of Vigan, Immaculate Conception Seminary of Diocese of Malolos, Mother of Good Counsel Seminary of the Archdiocese of Pampanga, Maria Assumpta Seminary of the Diocese of Cabanatuan, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Seminary of the Diocese of Lucena, Oblates of St Joseph Seminary from Batangas, St Francis de Sales Seminary of the Diocese of Lipa; Our Lady of Guadalupe Minor Seminary of the Archdiocese of Manila, St. Gregory the Great Seminary of the Diocese of Legazpi, and our own seminary.

For various seminaries, especially those coming from the north, the event presented an opportunity to have a tour of the Bicol Region, so aside from attending the event, most seminaries went around the scenic and tourist spots within the region.

Pictures of the event will be posted later...

pictures, pictures, and more pictures

2008-11-08T23:24:00.007+08:00

as promised... some pictures during the second convocation program...

Second Convocation and Cultural Night

2008-10-26T21:29:00.002+08:00

Last October 24, 2008, the awarding of academic achievers and seminarians who did well during the second grading period happened. Cultural presentations (still part of the intramurals) of the different teams were showcased. (I am very proud to say that they all did very well.)

Just watch out for the pictures soon to be published in this blog.

Foundation Day and Alumni Homecoming

2008-10-26T20:53:00.005+08:00

Some pictures of the foundation day and homecoming last October 17, 2008 8 a.m. Registration of Alumni and Guests

9 a.m. Holy Eucharist

10 a.m. picture taking (the backgound: some of the vehicles brought to the seminary by the alumni)

some members of the current faculty of the seminary

some parents of the former OLP seminarians who also came during the event

the pupitre band rehearsing for their performance for the evening program

some batches and mentors present during the evening affair

batch '83: the silver jubilarians who spearheaded the program and alumni homecoming
The evening affair had the theme: "Silver Jubilarians, Golden Mentors". Batch '83 honored all their teachers during their high school years in the seminary. It was really an night to remember and a night of remembering. Aside from taking charge of the sumptuous dinner after the program, the batch also donated P40,000.00 and $100 intended for the procurement of sports materials for the seminarians and additional fund for the the Sangkan 3 event that will be held here on November 20-21, 2008.
Thanks a lot Batch '83!

Intramurals 2008 - still

2008-10-16T21:46:00.007+08:00

Aside from the seminarians, the parents and faculty had their share of fun and enjoyment during the intramurals.

Before the marathon started, the seminarians had their limbering exercises.

The community finished all the games scheduled during the intramurals; and at the beach they celebrated the Holy Eucharist presided over by Fr. Totep. The beach front property owned by Peter and Josephine Ravanilla was a perfect place for the closing rites.

After the Mass and Marathon, the seminarians enjoyed the beach. There were additional events played -- swimming and obstacle course/challenge. The community partook on a sumptuous lunch with matching lechon (courtesy also of Peter and Bing Ravanilla).

Intramurals 2008

2008-10-11T12:49:00.007+08:00

The OLPS community started its intramurals with the theme: "The Crusade of the Elements". The seminarians were divided into 3 teams, namely, Eau, Vent, and Terre. The opening program was graced by the presence of "an ambassador" from China -- an avid fan and active consumer of melamine-laced products (cf. pictures). The OLPS community also extended its special gratitude to Sorsogon National High School Drum and Lyre for their participation in the parade.

Sangkan IV - Vigan City

2008-10-02T21:25:00.008+08:00

The Seniors attended Sangkan IV, a Luzonwide gathering of all Minor Seminaries, held last September 24-25, 2008, at the Immaculate Conception Seminary, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur. The event was attended by eleven Minor Seminaries coming from the host city -- Immaculate Conception Seminary,Vigan, Diocesan Seminary of the Heart of Jesus - La Union, San Jacinto Seminary - Tuguegarao, Immaculate Conception Minor Seminary- Bulacan, Our Lady of Guadalupe Minor Seminary - Manila, 2 from Batangas -- St. Francis de Sales Seminary --Lipa and Oblates of St. Joseph Seminary, Mother of Good Counsel Seminary - Pampanga, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Seminary - Sariaya, Mary Help of Christians Seminary - Pangasinan; and our own seminary.

The opening Mass was held at the Vigan Cathedral.

The two lucky ones who were placers in Dama and Darts.

The group enjoying the tour at the Baluarte, a zoo and park owned by Chavit Singson.

Lorenzo at the departure area of NAIA 3. He went ahead going back home to attend the wedding of his Tita.

At St. Martin de Porres Parish, where we ate our lunch.

At Enriquez's Residence inAyala Alabang Village where we had our dinner.

Penafrancia Celebrations

2008-10-02T20:45:00.003+08:00

The motorcade was really anticipated by pilgrims. Students from various schools lined up in the the streets to greet the Ina with shouts of "Viva!" and a shower of flowers.Msgr. Pax Monje warmly accepted Ina at the Diocesan Shrine of the Our Lady, Fatima Parish.

Fr. Totep and Fr. Japi carried Ina inside the shrine.

Viva la Virgen de Penafrancia!

The pilgrims are preparing for the procession going back to the seminary.

Some of the concelebrating priests during the Holy Eucharist (Saturday).

Fiesta Mass (Sunday). It was presided by Fr. Totep Erestain

Sacristy Blessing

2008-09-08T11:25:00.006+08:00

The sacristy of the OLPS Chapel was blessed by Fr. Totep last Sunday, September 7, 2008. The blessing coincided with the Fourth OLPS General Parents Assembly. Although, to be finished yet, the sacristy is already beautiful because of the new tile-flooring , new cabinets and drawers, and newly painted walls.

The OLPS chapel sacristy's repair and renovation is being spearheaded by the current Hermana Mayor Mama Engs Gapayao and with Sr. Myrna Dioquino through the help of the funds given by Fr. Ding Caindec.

Recollection and Team Building

2008-09-08T10:47:00.004+08:00

Every first week-end of the the month the seminarians have their recollection.
The recollection conducted recently by Fr. Totep with the help of Bro. Noel focused on team building with special emphases on competition, cooperation and concern. Hopefully, the activities the seminarians participated in helped them discover themselves and surfaced their values.

First Convocation SY2008-2009

2008-08-22T21:42:00.005+08:00

These are the seminarians who excelled in their class during the First Grading Period. They were duly acknowledged during the first convocation which was also the finale of the celebration of the "Araw ng Wika".

A group of Special Awardees ( PJ, Arlie, Meloy, Kent)

First Year Academic Awardees (Chris, PJ, Christian)

Second Year Academic Awardees (Val, Arlie, Rodney)

Third Year Academic Awardees (Mark, CJ, Jairus)

Fourth Year Academic Awardees (Lorenzo, Charles, Kent)

The Best Class for the First Period: Third Year

During the convocation, each year level presented a number related to the theme: "Wikang Filipino, Wika ng Mundo, Mahalaga!"

Buwan ng Wika

2008-08-22T21:22:00.004+08:00

Nakiisa ang kumunidad ng seminaryo sa pagdiriwang ng Buwan ng Wika. Pinaghati-hati ang mga seminarista sa tatlong pangkat na pinangalanang -- Tasaday, Badjao, at Igorot. Sa loob ng kalahating araw, nagkaroon ng tagisan ng talino at iba pang paligsahan, tulad ng sipa, "holen", at iba pang malikhaing palaro.Ang mga Igorot ipinapakita ang "Pagdiriwang ng Unang Kasarinlan".Ang mga Badjao ipinapakita ang "Death March"

Ang mga Tasaday ipinapakita ang "Unang Misa".

mga Tasadaymga Igorotmga Badjao

St. Martha Celebration

2008-07-27T20:25:00.007+08:00

To celebrate the feast of St. Martha (July 29), the seminary treated its workers to an advance celebration of the feast with an overnight outing at the "Balay-Buhay" SanRoque, Bulusan last Saturday (July 26). The main purpose was to treat and thank the workers who are also in their own way of working silently in the background are helping in the formation of the seminarians. I can still remember the workers during our time and how they influenced me during my formation. But I think, the formators were the ones who really enjoyed the cool break, including kayaking at the pond and a bath at the cascading falls located just 200 meters from the place. It was really a day (and night) of fun and games. The place really served as the perfect venue for sharing, relaxation and recreation! A number stayed awake until the wee hours of the morning. Sir Sim Gamba was our gracious host. The food was really great too. Early Sunday morning they celebrated the Holy Eucharist at the San Roque Barangay Chapel with the barrio folks.

Let the pictures show you the "story."

Seminary Repair, Renovation, and Beautification

2008-07-20T10:50:00.004+08:00

The seminary repairs, renovation and beautification are still on-going albeit "small scale" because of lack of funds. Nevertheless they are continuing. Here are some on-going projects: (1) the repair/renovation of the sacristy of the seminary's chapel; (2) the improvement of the garden at the back of the grotto; (3) the audiovisual room (this used to be the small dorm down or the dorm 3) (during the time of Fr. Isko Eleazar, when I was in second year [1988], this room was our audiovisual room too.); and (4) the repainting of the seminary (we urgently need paint donors. help!) The sacristy repair is made possible in part by the dollar donation of Fr. Ding Caindec. The garden improvement is undergoing because of the help of Mama Engs Gapayao, the present Hermana Mayor of the seminary chapel.

Alumni Meeting

2008-07-20T10:42:00.002+08:00

Last July 18, 2008, the seminary hosted the 3rd meeting of the alumni board. Minutes of the meeting will be posted at the sano tambayan c/o Totep Perez, the Board Secretary.

Package

2008-07-20T10:12:00.005+08:00

The package from the USA, (particularly from Sano Arnel Deyto) arrived this morning (july 20) here at OLPS. It contained sports paraphernalia promised by Batch '83, in connection with OLPS' preparation for the upcoming Sangkan 3 this November.

Here are the particulars: 2 pcs. Basketball; 1 pc. Volleyball; 1 pc. soccerball; 1 bucket pingpong balls; 1 pc. Football; 1 ball pump; and 4 pcs. basketball nets; and 5 pcs. dart boards (this includes the 2 pcs of dart boards brought here last summer).

Aside from this package, Batch '83 committed themselves for the purchase/making of pool tables and tables for Table Tennis.

Thank you very much Batch '83.

SCINTILLA 2008

2008-07-08T08:24:00.013+08:00

The Scintilla 2008. Hopefully, this will be released on the first week of August 2008. The draft was already sent to the printer.

Enjoy viewing (and reading) some of the memories of school year 2007-2008.

New Faces, New Seminarians

2008-07-01T21:05:00.004+08:00

The New Sophomores

The Freshmen

Just see and observe their faces and see whether one or two remind you of your old classmates or some SANO.

Pictures

2008-07-01T20:12:00.009+08:00

The Seniors

The Juniors

The Sophomores

Last June 30, the pilgrim image of INA, Our Lady of Penafrancia, passed by the seminary. She was warmly welcomed by the seminary community including some parents of the seminarians. Fr. Totep Erestain led the prayers.
After the Mass of the Holy Spirit, a community picture was taken. Both departments, High School and College, were present during the shoot. (Just double click on the picture to have at least a "larger" view of the ant-like images. The available digicam during the pictorial was just 3.1 megapixels.)
During the Mass, a special blessing was bestowed upon the seminarian's fathers because the second Sunday of June is also Father's Day.
The seminarians had their last hurrah for the summer. The Day before the start of classes the seminarians went to Bacon beach for the opening of the year outing.

New School Year

2008-06-30T16:13:00.003+08:00

The ministry of forming young boys become young men started once again. The school year 2008-2009 kicked off last June 15 with the celebration of the Mass of the Holy Spirit presided over by Bishop Bastes, a week after the seminarians already comfortably settled themselves in their "newly-designated" places in the seminary -- including after being acquainted with their cleaning assignments, chairs and pupitres, dormitories and beds, table assignments and classrooms, and their sitting arrangements both in the chapel and the study hall (June 7 -- entrance date).

Relatively, there were fewer freshmen this year. Only 19 boys among the 24 passers entered. But after only a few days, we already had two casualties (they went out for a reason known to us all -- homesickness). Aside from the 19 freshmen, there were 2 transferees (incoming sophomores).

As of the moment, the community is composed of 17 freshmen, 28 sophomores, 15 juniors, 11 seniors, 3 priest-formators, 1 nun, 4 full-time office personnel, 7 house and kitchen staff, 2 part-time cleric teachers, and 8 part-time teachers. All in all, we are 96 able-bodied and good-spirited members of the seminary community for the school year 2008-2009.

Pictures of the events that transpired this month of June will be posted (soon) later.

These are what we need so far as we started the year -- prayers! prayers! prayers! Other needs will be mentioned later as the year progresses.

OLPS Faculty Vigan Trip

2008-05-15T14:59:00.003+08:00

Last March 31-April 4, 2008, the faculty and staff of OLPS had a "Northern Luzon Tour".

OLPS Chapel

2008-03-26T13:52:00.001+08:00

My Task, My Privilege, My Joy

2008-03-14T13:14:00.006+08:00

Another formation year will end tomorrow, March 15, 2008. It means I have been a minor seminary formator for 3 years - 1 year as an acting Rector and 2 years as full-time Rector of my very own beloved alma mater, sometimes referred to as one of the best "barangay schools" in the whole country! LET ME SHARE SOME RANDOM INSIGHTS...

Seminary rectorship is my ministry/mission , my task, my privilege, my joy, my responsibility, my lesson, my burden, my contribution to the church. First and foremost, I have to acknowledge that my being the Rector of OLPS is not a right nor a well-deserved position for the contrary is what I truly feel. I feel so undeserving and sometimes incompetent to handle the said office. Nevertheless I accept the challenge for basically this is the ministry/mission entrusted to me now.

It is my task. And my task is to form young men develop themselves and their love for the priesthood (in line with the vision of the seminary.)

It is my privilege. Unworthy though I am, I am privileged to make a difference in the life and the vision of young mind and hearts. A privilege (I feel) similar to what God bestowed on me when God chose me to be His priest.

It is my joy. I always believe that doing God's work is its own reward -- I am joy-filled that despite my weaknesses and shortcomings, God, the Bishop, the Clergy of Sorsogon, the parents of the seminarians, the seminarians themselves (as if they had a choice....hehehe), they trusted me -- my person! What a great affirmation!

It is my responsibility. Aaaaahhh. If possible take off this yoke upon my shoulder.

It is my lesson. One of the best lessons I have learned during this school year "was taught" to me by the seminarian's parents! As I observed them, during general assemblies, during weekly visits, and during special seminary gatherings, they really showed their love and concern for their sons. And even during casual conversations with them, I sensed their deep love and concern for their sons. For them the words of St. Augustine echo and come to life, allow me to rephrase; "for someone who loves, nothing is too heavy to bear; and if there are pains and difficulties, they are loved and they become easier to bear.." I hope I would be embraced by such disposition. I pray I would be gifted with that intense love for the seminarians.

It is my burden. The things I have done, am doing, and will be doing, I always believe, had, have, and will create a difference in the life of people. And the things I failed to do will definitely leave its mark too. This is the "burden" that I carry, I can either make or break people's lives. Especially with the malleability of the personalities of the seminarians, I am careful (as much as possible) with how I conduct myself in front of them. At the same time, I try to show them the real me for it will be very difficult and not healthy for me to wear masks, for eventually, in the end I will be just fooling myself and there may come a time when I will fail to recognize my true self.

Finally, it is my mere contribution to the Church. So help me God.

The beauty of what I am experiencing today roots on the interplay of the apparent contraries, of the positive and negative feelings, of the joy and the burden, of the privilege and the unworthiness, of the demand for gentleness and firmness, but most importantly, on the interplay of the human and the Divine elements.

I am contented with how I am living my life and am glad that I am sharing it with this particular seminary community.

Graduation Invitation

2008-03-10T10:31:00.004+08:00

School Year 2007-2008

2008-02-19T09:10:00.003+08:00

Come March 15, 2008, the Freshmen Batch of 2004 will be graduating. Only 11 (actually 13 -- the 2 others, namely, Sylvester Evander "rocky" Alcazar and Edzel Bien, will be graduating in St. Gregory the Great Seminary) survived the 4-year of seminary formation.
The candidates for graduation are the following:
1. Francis Martin Benzon,
2. Jeffrey Calisin,
3. Jefrahim Cosa,
4. Sean Malcolm Enteria,
5. Gerald Fontelar,
6. Julius Garrido,
7. Angelino Nelson Goma
8. Robert Labalan Jr.,
9. James Mella,
10. Carl Anly Ortiz, and
11. Kenneth Tanada.

Hopefully all of them can be present during the commencement excercises. I warned them not to do something "stupid" so that they will not deprive themselves of participating in the rites. (Three of them were caught smoking. Haaaaayyyyy...)

BAMS 2008

2008-02-10T13:26:00.000+08:00

The St. Gregory the Great Seminary (SGGS) in Tabaco City hosted the 22nd Bicol Association of Minor Seminaries Meet last February 7-9, 2008. OLPS sent 16 official delegates for the gathering (11 Seniors, 3 Formators, 2 members of the Faculty). Aside from the official delegates, Fr. Japi, Sr. Myrna and almost all the parents/guardians of the seniors went to Tabaco City to see the cultural presentation scheduled on the night of the 2nd day of the meet. Some parents also joined the pilgrimage to Joroan (Our Lady of Salvation Shrine) on the 3rd day. The whole BAMS community celebrated there the Holy Eucharist presided over by OLPS community (celebrant, preacher, choir, acolytes). After the mass and breakfast, the participants were treated to a special halo-halo from Tiwi...
Before going home, the whole SGGS community together with OLPS delegation went to Dhio Endheka Spring Resort in Buang and had a great excursion...

Come Holy Spirit!

2008-02-10T13:00:00.001+08:00

Last February 3, Bishop Bastes confirmed 18 seminarians, 5 relatives of seminarians, and 1 seminary worker. It was celebrated during the general assembly of parents for the month of February.With Tio Nards as the ninong, Agot was confirmed together with the seminarians...
A simple lunch followed after the event...

some seminary activities on the month of january

2008-01-31T14:27:00.001+08:00

january 25, third convocation program... in honor of the teachers , in celebration of the Catholic Teachers' Day...seminarians outing -- paradise resort, pang-pang, sorsogon city, on the occasion of fr. totep (january 24) and fr. japi's (january 26) birthday...
january 26, new sea breeze resort, bacon beach, sorsogon city, seminary staff and teachers' outing...

GREETINGS

2008-01-15T21:22:00.000+08:00

Nabuhay na naman...

I realized that the true and tested problem after the creation of blogspots is the maintenance.

I cannot think of valid excuses why I was not able to update the site therefore i will not try to make one. I just have to admit that I was one of those who started something and tried to forget that they started something. (The fox in the "Little Prince" will surely get mad at me.)

I just want to greet everyone -- mga SANO, mga PADI, mga SEMINARISTA, mga MAGURANG, mga BISITA, mga NAKIBASA, gabos na NAKABASA nan NAKASABOT -- A Blessed New Year! We started the year in the seminary with the celebration of the Holy Eucharist (January 3) and we really prayed for all of you (again our intentions were for -- mga SANO, mga PADI, mga SEMINARISTA, mga MAGURANG, mga BISITA, mga NAKIBASA, gabos na NAKABASA nan NAKASABOT...)

I also want to express my gratitude to those who helped the seminary (in any way) last year --2007... THANK YOU VERY MUCH... DIOS MABALOS! I am once again counting on your support and generosity this year...

One of the thoughts that keeps me going is the fact that this is not MY work but GOD's! I am just one of God's dispensable channels/instruments -- whether I am "available" or not, does not really matter, because God's work will continue, but I am definitely grateful that God made me a partner (however unworthy). Hopefully, all of you, will allow yourselves also to be God's partners in forming future leaders of the Church... God bless us all.

May the intercession of INA be our constant protection and assurance...

fr. egay

Alumni Attendance

2007-10-23T15:28:00.001+08:00

The tallest and the smallest alumni who came during the foundation day - Krunimar Escudero ('89) and Wimpy Obsum ('92). There was only a handful of alumni -- both ordained and non-ordained -- who came during the foundation day.

(If you want to see more photos, go to batch88-92 blogspot. Their batch came in full force.)

The main celebrant during the Eucharistic celebration was Fr. Odine Areola ('82) for the reason that he is a member of the class who is celebrating their silver anniversary.

Foundation Day

2007-10-23T15:12:00.001+08:00

The main activity during the foundation day was the tree planting. Although it was raining, those who came braved the rains and pushed through with the tree planting...
Here are some pictures of the said event.

More Pictures of the Intrams

2007-10-15T11:16:00.000+08:00

On-going INTRAMURALS

2007-10-12T16:37:00.000+08:00

Here are some pictures that happened just this morning (oct12)... during the opening ceremonies of the intramurals... hope these pictures will somehow awaken in you the feeling of nostalgia.

The intramurals' theme is: Clash of the Empires! Celts, Spartans, Sioux...

Foundation Anniversary

2007-10-12T15:58:00.000+08:00

This will be the simple celebration of the foundation anniversary of the seminary. I was really at a loss how to plan out activities for the non-ordained alumni for I don't know whom to contact. mea culpa! mea culpa! mea culpa! Nevertheless, all alumni (both ordained and non-ordained) are cordially invited for the celebration of the foundation anniversary of the seminary...

But as much as possible we tried to incorporate the non-ordained in the foundation activities.

If you come, we will surely try to make you feel at home... and maybe we can plan out for future activities that involve you. Promise.

To all alumni, I am begging for your understanding, the concerns of the seminary and the formation of the seminarians entrusted to me oftentimes overwhelm me... Maybe you also know the feeling of trying to do so many things but ending up feeling that nothing has been done.

Mea culpa. Mea culpa. Mea culpa.

O pan-o, magkiritaan na lang kita sa Octobre 17, 2007?

Pasensya Na

2007-10-12T15:57:00.000+08:00

Nalimutan ko tabi an password kaya lain ko na-update an blog...

Work in Progress

2007-07-27T11:00:00.002+08:00

Aside from the seminarians (who are the real work-in-progress), the seminary is undergoing repainting and renovation. These works-in-progress have progressed steadily. Thanks to the generous donors and persons who are making these possible.

Although there is still much to be done and there is the constant need for support, we, who have been tasked to take good care of this our beloved alma mater, are very optimistic about her future because of the encouragement and support that we have been getting. (Most of the times, just simple affirmations and "taps in the back" really help. And even unsolicited pieces of advice and negative criticisms are now welcome because we are now secured that our actions are done with best intentions for the seminary, the seminarians and ultimately for the church.)

The repainting of the part of the main building facing the grotto has been done. White and green are the colors chosen for they are really the colors of the Our Lady of Peñafrancia Seminary. (Just to make an initial acknowledgment of alumni donors, the non-ordained alumni contributed P35,000.00 and some ordained alumni contributed P50,000.00+. Individual donors have been acknowledged personally. A really HUGE thanks mga sano.)

The new pews for the seminary chapel are being varnished also.

This coming month, we will be launching a project (Project AKI*). AKI is an acronym for Alay Kay Ina. Its main objective is the completion of the chapel (ceiling and flooring) renovation. Details of the said project are being ironed out. Hopefully through this project, support from those who love the seminary will truly come.

God bless us all always.