SAN JOSE, Antique (PIA) — Antiqueño Aglipayan faithful gather to celebrate the installation of Right Reverend Leon T. Estrella.
Joining the Antiqueño Aglipayan faithful, Senator Loren Legarda also expressed support for the recent installation of Bishop Estrella as the new Bishop of Antique.
In a heartfelt address at the fourth installation of Bishop Estrella, Senator Loren Legarda reaffirmed her deep connection to her hometown and the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI) held at the historic St. Jude Cathedral in Sibalom, expressing her support for the church’s mission to promote faith, unity, and social justice.
“As a daughter of Antique, I am deeply humbled by the grace of this moment. Today, I join you in this divine invitation as a renewal of our shared mission to serve, uplift, and unite,” said Legarda during her speech.
Legarda, a proud daughter of the province, highlighted her family’s deep historical ties to the IFI and their contributions to its growth and development.
As a member of the esteemed Gella clan, she underscored the legacy of service and leadership passed down through generations.
The four-term senator paid tribute to her ancestors, Pedro and Baltazara Gella, whose contributions to the province remain etched in history.
Pedro Gella, who served as the municipal president of Sibalom during a critical transitional period in the country’s history, was a significant figure in Antique’s governance.
She also paid homage to Ariston Gella, a delegate of the 1898 Malolos Congress, who advocated for sovereignty and justice during the pivotal periods in Philippine history.
She also recognized Vicente Gella, the founder of Colegio de San Vicente Ferrer in San Jose, Antique, for his efforts in awakening the minds and spirits of prominent Antiqueños through education.
“Today, their resolve continues to echo, inspiring both me and my brother, Congressman AA Legarda, to uphold the transformative power of education, good governance, and faith to improve the lives of our beloved kasimanwa,” she said.
Legarda also highlighted her advocacy for peace and social reform, recounting her work with the late Bishop Maximo Tomas Millamena.
She underscored the role of faith leaders in addressing societal challenges, particularly in promoting peace, justice, and community well-being.
As Bishop Estrella embarks on his new mission, Legarda pledged her continued commitment to serving the people of Antique.
Together with her brother, Congressman AA Legarda, she vowed to support initiatives that address poverty, hunger, and inequality in the province.
The installation ceremony was held on Jan. 6 and was also attended by parishioners, local officials, and community leaders.
Bishop Estrella’s appointment marks a new chapter for the IFI in Antique, continuing the church’s long-standing advocacy for social justice and inclusivity. (AGP/ PSM/SLL/PIA Antique)
