The National Council of Churches in the Philippines (NCCP) has pledged continued cooperation with the Catholic Church on humanitarian initiatives, reaffirming ecumenical collaboration in service of the poor and marginalized.
In a statement released following the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines’ (CBCP) announcement of its new leadership, the NCCP extended its congratulations to Bishop Gerardo Alminaza of San Carlos, who was elected chair of the CBCP Episcopal Commission on Social Action, Justice and Peace.
“The National Council of Churches in the Philippines congratulates The Most Rev. Gerardo A. Alminaza, D.D. on his election as the new Chair of the Episcopal Commission on Social Action-Justice and Peace (ECSA-JP) and President of Caritas-Philippines,” the council said.
The NCCP, an ecumenical fellowship of Protestant and non-Roman Catholic churches, said it “welcomes and assures the Bishop of enhanced cooperation in humanitarian work through the Philippine Faith-Based Organization Forum (FBO PH) in serving the people in need.”
The council also offered prayers for Bishop Alminaza, expressing hopes for a ministry marked by a firm commitment to social justice and ecological integrity. “We pray that the Bishop’s ministry will continue to thrive through advocating for justice, peace, and safeguarding the integrity of creation,” it added.
As head of the Episcopal commission, Bishop Alminaza will also serve as the new president of Caritas Philippines, the CBCP’s humanitarian and advocacy arm. He previously served as vice chairman of the commission and vice president of Caritas since 2019.
Known for his firm stance on human rights, social justice, and environmental protection, Bishop Alminaza has been a consistent advocate for the rights of vulnerable communities.
His election took place during the CBCP’s 130th Plenary Assembly held in Anda, Bohol from July 5 to 7. He will assume office on December 1, 2025, replacing Kidapawan Bishop Jose Colin Bagaforo, whose term ends on November 30.
