Antonio Racelis Rañola was born on 16 May 1932 in Manila, within the Archdiocese of Manila. He was ordained a priest on 26 March 1956, incardinated into the Diocese of Lucena, where he faithfully served for decades in parish and diocesan ministries before his episcopal appointment.
On 24 February 1990, Pope John Paul II appointed him Auxiliary Bishop of Cebu and Titular Bishop of Claternae. He was ordained a bishop on 4 April 1990 at San Fernando Cathedral in Lucena. The principal consecrator was Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Bruno Torpigliani, assisted by Bishops Ruben Tolentino Profugo of Lucena and Angel Nacorda Lagdameo of Dumaguete. From that date until 2 October 2003, he served as Auxiliary Bishop of Cebu, participating in the pastoral and administrative life of the Archdiocese during the tenures of Cardinal Vidal and later Archbishop José Palma.
After his resignation in October 2003—upon reaching retirement age—he became Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus of Cebu[0][13]. As bishop emeritus, he remained an enduring presence in the archdiocese, offering guidance and support even after formal retirement.
Bishop Rañola is known for longstanding friendships within the episcopal community. He deeply cherished his relationship with the late Cardinal Ricardo Vidal, whom he knew from seminary days at the Minor Seminary of the Most Holy Rosary in Sariaya, Quezon. Bishop Rañola often spoke of Vidal as a devoted shepherd and example of humility, recalling their years together as seminarians and formators.
Throughout his long priestly ministry—spanning over 68 years until his retirement—and his episcopal service of nearly 35 years, Bishop Rañola exemplified quiet dedication and pastoral closeness. His participation in the 2019 “ad Limina” visit of Philippine bishops to Rome included his name among the group received by Pope Francis on 27 May 2019 as former auxiliary of Cebu.
Rañola holds the honorary title of Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus of the Archdiocese of Cebu, remembered for faithful service, pastoral warmth, and enduring friendships within the Philippine Catholic hierarchy.