A Double Celebration: Honoring Saint Joseph and the Legacy of the Diocese’s Two Catholic Media Stations

March 19, 2026, marked the Solemnity of Saint Joseph, Spouse of Mary—our silent yet powerful patron of evangelization—and the founding anniversaries of two radio stations of the Diocese of Mati, the DXHM-AM 549kHz (35th) and DXDV 97.5 Spirit FM (17th)

As part of the celebration, a solemn Fiesta Mass was presided over by His Excellency Most Rev. Abel C. Apigo, DD., Bishop of Mati, together with the clergy of the Diocese of Mati, honoring St. Joseph and thanksgiving for the gift of faith and years of dedicated service of the two media stations for continuing the mission of bringing Christ to the people.

In his homily, Bishop Abel emphasized the profound role of Saint Joseph in the work of evangelization. He reminded the faithful that Saint Joseph’s silence was not a sign of weakness or inactivity, but a sacred and powerful expression of obedient faith. Thus, we recognize him as our patron ‘sa panaw sa ebanghelisasyon’—a model of how the Gospel can be lived, witnessed, and shared even in silence.

Moreover, he acknowledged the resources of the mission partners, the talents of the radio technicians, and the SocCom young people, who strengthened and accelerated the transmission of God’s words to homes across the world.

“It is was by sharing by being silent behind the scene that you enable the work of evangelization to continue,” said Bishop Abel.

In part two of the celebration, a singing contest was held—The Take One On The Air—featuring ten talented contenders from across Davao Oriental. The competition showcased the participants’ musical talent and their passion for inspiring and uniting through their vibrant melodies. In the end, three contestants bagged the titles, namely: Golden Reporial (2nd Runner-Up), JC Loyola (1st Runner-Up), and Janine Maica Francisco (Champion).

The celebration was a success thanks to the efforts and support of the silent mission partners, the dedication and talents of the media technicians and young SocCom Volunteers, and the entire staff of the radio stations—a powerful reminder that evangelization comes in many forms.

Indeed, this double celebration highlighted not only the devotion and faith of the Catholic Church’s mission but also the radiant life of the Diocese of Mati, inspiring everyone to proclaim the message of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Together, in the silence, we proclaim God’s name. (April Joy Toloy)