Archbishop John Forrosuelo Du, who currently serves as the Archbishop of Palo in Leyte since 2012, was born on October 18, 1954, in Bantayan Island, Cebu, one of the oldest Catholic settlements in the Philippines. His early life in a deeply Catholic environment played a significant role in shaping his vocation. After completing his early education, he entered the San Carlos Seminary College in Cebu and later pursued theological studies at the San Carlos Major Seminary. He was ordained to the priesthood on June 1, 1979, for the Archdiocese of Cebu by the late Cardinal Julio Rosales.
As a priest, Fr. John Du served in numerous pastoral and administrative roles in Cebu. He was known for being close to the people, often described as a priest who listened attentively and served generously. His deep pastoral concern and organizational skills led to his appointment as Auxiliary Bishop of Cebu on December 6, 1997, by Pope John Paul II. He was consecrated bishop on January 6, 1998, in Rome by Pope John Paul II himself—an honor not commonly afforded to all bishops.
In 2001, he was appointed by Pope John Paul II as the Bishop of Dumaguete, where he served for more than a decade. As bishop, he gave priority to the spiritual formation of both clergy and laity, improving catechetical programs and encouraging vocations. He also promoted transparency in diocesan affairs and enhanced the social mission of the Church by strengthening Caritas Dumaguete and engaging with civic and interfaith groups.
On February 25, 2012, Pope Benedict XVI appointed him as the Archbishop of Palo, succeeding Archbishop Jose S. Palma, who had been transferred to the Archdiocese of Cebu. He was installed as the fourth Metropolitan Archbishop of Palo on May 9, 2012. The Archdiocese of Palo covers the civil provinces of Leyte, Biliran, and part of Samar, and is one of the major archdioceses in the Eastern Visayas region.
One of the defining moments of Archbishop Du’s episcopate was his leadership during and after the catastrophic Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) in November 2013. The typhoon, one of the strongest in recorded history, heavily damaged church structures, convents, seminaries, schools, and rectories in the archdiocese. Archbishop Du personally led relief operations, provided spiritual and psychological support to survivors, and mobilized both local and international aid for the reconstruction of homes, chapels, and diocesan buildings. Under his direction, the Archdiocese of Palo became a symbol of resilience and faith.
He was instrumental in preparing for the pastoral visit of Pope Francis to Tacloban on January 17, 2015, where the Holy Father celebrated Mass with thousands of survivors and comforted those still grieving. Despite the stormy weather during the visit, Archbishop Du stood with the pope at the altar, representing the people’s courage and gratitude.
Archbishop Du also oversaw the rebuilding of the Palo Cathedral (Metropolitan Cathedral of Our Lord’s Transfiguration), which was severely damaged by Yolanda. With support from local and foreign donors, the cathedral was restored and rededicated on December 17, 2014.
Within the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), Archbishop Du has served in several capacities. He was formerly the treasurer of the CBCP and has been a member of various commissions, including those on clergy, social action, and liturgy. He has also been a mentor to many younger bishops and priests, known for his wisdom and gentle leadership.
Archbishop Du is known for his love of simplicity, his aversion to publicity, and his commitment to the spiritual welfare of his flock. Despite his high ecclesiastical position, he maintains a lifestyle that reflects humility and service. He is often seen visiting remote parishes, attending to sick priests, and encouraging lay collaboration.