Happy 50th Presbyteral Ordination Anniversary, our dear Archbishop Emeritus of Cebu, Most Rev. Jose S. Palma, DD!

Born on March 19, 1950, in the quiet town of Dingle, Iloilo, Archbishop Palma—affectionately called “Nono” by his loved ones—grew up as the second of eight children in a humble, faith-filled family.

In their simple home, he first encountered God’s love through his parents, Ruperto and Ester. His father, Tatay Ruperto, a respected barangay chief, instilled in his children the virtues of humility, kindness, and faith—values that would shape the future archbishop.

Quiet and solemn yet gifted in his studies, young Nono graduated valedictorian from Calicuang Elementary School. At Mater Carmeli School in Iloilo, his faith was further nurtured by the Carmelite sisters, laying the foundation for a life that would be dedicated to God and His people.

He was initially interested in taking up Engineering, however, his faith and the call to priesthood proved stronger and louder. His “fiat” or yes to God’s call became a prelude to an extraordinary life of service to the will of God.

Firm in offering himself to the altar of the priesthood, he studied philosophy at St. Vincent Ferrer Seminary and was among the first graduates at St. Joseph Regional Seminary where he studied theology.

He was ordained on August 21, 1976, the 3rd anniversary of his father’s death, a heartfelt demonstration of his great love and admiration for his Tatay Ruperto.

Ad multos annos, Archbishop!