Over 200 priests reshuffled in Manila

MANILA, Philippines — Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula has reshuffled over 200 priests of the Archdiocese of Manila in a bid to equally distribute them to 93 parishes, including some of the chaplaincies within the archdiocese’s jurisdiction.

Among the priests affected by the reshuffling is Msgr. Rolando dela Cruz, who was designated as the new rector of the Manila Cathedral, replacing Fr. Reginald Malicdem, according to an article on Church-run Radyo Veritas’ website.

Malicdem was designated chaplain of the Our Lady of Hope Mission Station of Landmark and at SM Chapels in Makati City. Msgr. Clemente Ignacio will remain as the vicar general and moderator curia of the archdiocese while Fr. Isidro Marinay was appointed as chancellor.

Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines Public Affairs Commission executive secretary Fr. Jerome Secillano was assigned to the Shrine of Mary Queen of Peace, popularly known as EDSA Shrine, along with Fr. Matthieu Dauchez.

Fr. Rufino Sescon was designated as rector and parish priest of the Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene, replacing Msgr. Hernando Coronel, who is currently on a special mission in Yukon, Canada, while Fr. Roy Bellen will remain in the media arm of the archdiocese.

Radyo Veritas said the change of leadership in the parishes and chaplaincies in the Archdiocese of Manila is expected to take effect next month.