Fiat Et Magnificat: 25th Episcopacy, 50th Priesthood, 75th Baptism

From the heart of Davao City emerged a vocation that would shape not only a diocese but countless lives in the Church. Born on April 3, 1951, the 11th and youngest child of his parents, Bishop Guillermo Dela Vega Afable’s journey and vocation began with a deep sense of calling nurtured through years of formation and service towards God’s people.

He had his elementary and high school education at the Jesuit-run Ateneo de Davao University. He completed his college seminary training at St. Francis Xavier College Seminary in Davao City in 1972. Bishop Guillermo “Gimmy” personally recalled how his father used to be against his decision to enter the seminary since he wanted him to become a lawyer. But eventually, as he visited his father after hearing that he was sick, his father even wondered why he was at their home when supposedly he should be at the seminary. He completed theology studies at St. Francis Xavier Regional Major Seminary in 1976.

Thus, his ordination to the priesthood on April 24, 1976, by the laying on of hands of the late Archbishop Antonio L. Mabutas, D.D., as a clergy of the Archdiocese of Davao marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to serve God’s people, a commitment defined by humility, discipline, and a quiet but firm dedication to pastoral ministry. He was the very first one to be ordained as a priest in his home parish, the Our Lady of Fatima Parish, at 101 Aurora Quezon St., Poblacion District, Davao City.

In his early years as a priest, Bishop Afable immersed himself in various ministries that honed both his spiritual depth and leadership abilities. He served as a parish vicar, seminary formator, and later as rector of St. Francis Xavier College Seminary, where he played a crucial role in shaping future priests. His missionary experience in the Solomon Islands further broadened his pastoral perspective, exposing him to the universal dimension of the Church and strengthening his zeal for evangelization. These formative experiences laid the groundwork for a ministry that would always prioritize formation, community-building, and fidelity to Church teachings.

He was appointed by Pope John Paul II on April 2, 2001, as Auxiliary Bishop of Davao, and his episcopal ordination on July 12, 2001. It signaled the Church’s recognition of his leadership and pastoral wisdom. Soon after, he was entrusted with a greater mission as Coadjutor Bishop and eventually became the Bishop of the Diocese of Digos in 2003, succeeding Bishop Generoso Camina, PME. As shepherd of the diocese, Bishop Afable has guided the faithful through both challenges and opportunities, fostering a Church that is participative, mission-oriented, and grounded in the Gospel.

At the core of Bishop Afable’s identity as a bishop is his episcopal motto, “In Veritate et Misericordia,” which means “In Truth and Mercy.” This guiding principle reflects his commitment to uphold the truth of the Gospel while extending compassion and understanding to all. It is a motto that resonates deeply in his ministry, especially in a world where both truth and mercy are often challenged. Through his leadership, he continues to demonstrate that authentic Christian service requires both firmness in faith and tenderness in love.

A defining aspect of Bishop Afable’s ministry is his strong emphasis on formation and the new evangelization. He consistently advocates for programs that deepen the faith of the laity, strengthen the spiritual and intellectual formation of clergy, and promote active engagement in evangelizing efforts. For him, the mission of the Church goes beyond maintaining traditions it calls for renewed energy in proclaiming Christ in contemporary society. His vision challenges the faithful to become not just recipients of faith, but active witnesses who bring the Gospel into families, workplaces, and communities.

Equally central to his life is his profound devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. As National Spiritual Director of the World Apostolate of Fatima in the Philippines, Bishop Afable has dedicated himself to spreading the message of Our Lady of Fatima: conversion, prayer, and penance. His Marian spirituality is not merely devotional but deeply pastoral, encouraging the faithful to encounter Christ through Mary’s example of humility and obedience. This love for the Blessed Mother is beautifully captured in the theme of his jubilee celebration, “Fiat et Magnificat,” echoing Mary’s response to God’s call and her song of praise.

In celebration of his remarkable milestones—75 years of life, 50 years of priesthood, and 25 years of episcopal service, Bishop Afable presided over a series of thanksgiving Masses, each held in places that have been part of his journey. The celebrations begin at the St. Francis Xavier Regional Major Seminary Chapel on April 20, 2026 (5:30 PM), followed by the Our Lady of Fatima Church on April 21, 2026 (5:15 PM), highlighting his Marian devotion. Following it was the Masses at Sacred Heart Church Obrero on April 22, 2026 (5:30 PM), and at San Pablo Church Matina on April 23, 2026 (12:00 NN). Last April 24 at 3:00 pm, the Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines, Most Rev. Charles J. Brown, D.D., presided over a thanksgiving mass before finally culminating at the Mary Mediatrix of All Grace Cathedral last April 25, 2026 (9:00 AM). These liturgical gatherings are more than commemorations; they are moments of gratitude, unity, and renewed commitment to the mission of the Church.

As Bishop Gimmy continues his ministry, his life stands as a testament to faithful perseverance and servant leadership. His journey from a young seminarian in Davao to a bishop shepherding a diocese reflects a deep trust in God’s providence and a heart fully given to service. In every aspect of his vocation, he remains a guiding presence for the faithful, leading them ever closer to Christ through truth, mercy, and the loving intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary. (Photos: DCH & Brenda P. Milan)