Vidal is now Talisay's adopted son

CEBU, Philippines – Cebu Archbishop Ricardo Cardinal Vidal is now an adopted son of Talisay City. This after the city council during its special session Monday approved Resolution No. 2010-SP2-7 declaring the prelate as the city's adopted son.

"The City of Talisay has long been a direct and indirect beneficiary and recipient of the many impressive, memorable and valuable benefits during the endearing leadership and selfless shepherding of his, in the many service roles he played, particularly for the whole Island of Cebu benefiting the Cebuanos now and in the future generations," read the resolution sponsored by Vice Mayor Alan Bucao.

The council also noted Vidal's 29 years as archbishop of Cebu, during which "he has caused the great transformation of the whole archdiocese: the multiplication of parishes, chaplaincies, religious congregations, organizations, communities; the establishment of shrines, churches, chapels, schools, charity houses, Foundations; the implementation of programs and practices for socio-economic, political, cultural, artistic, historical, and religious concerns."

"He has tremendously helped in the integral development and progress of Cebu Province and Cebu Archdiocese that have made them number one province or archdiocese in many aspects," read the resolution which was approved on mass motion.

The 79-year-old prelate became Cebu's archbishop in Aug. 24, 1982, succeeding then Cardinal Julio Rosales. He was supposed to resign when he reached 75, but it was only last Oct. 15 when Pope Benedict XVI accepted his resignation. Vidal will be replaced by Palo Archbishop Jose S. Palma.

"Adopting His Eminence Ricardo Cardinal Jamin Vidal as son of City of Talisay; its best, highest and most sincere recognition of gratitude for this man of God and of people, very great in Cebu history and greater still in the hearts and memories of all Talisaynons," further read the resolution. (FREEMAN)