Bishop Julito Buhisan Cortes, D.D., is known for his pastoral leadership, intellectual depth, and dedication to the Church’s mission in the Philippines. Born on July 4, 1956, in Parañaque, Metro Manila, he was raised in a deeply Catholic environment and eventually discerned a vocation to the priesthood. His family roots, however, are in the island province of Bohol, giving him strong ties to the Visayas region where he would later serve much of his ministry.
Cortes pursued his ecclesiastical studies at San Carlos Seminary in Cebu, where he obtained his degree in Philosophy and Theology. He was ordained to the priesthood for the Archdiocese of Cebu on October 24, 1980. Early in his priestly life, Fr. Cortes served in various capacities—as parish priest, formator, and seminary rector—demonstrating both pastoral sensitivity and academic excellence. Recognizing his potential for higher studies, he was later sent to Rome where he earned a Doctorate in Sacred Theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University.
Upon returning to the Philippines, Cortes continued to serve in seminary formation and theological education. He was instrumental in shaping future priests and in contributing to the theological discourse in the country. His deep understanding of Church teachings and his pastoral zeal caught the attention of the Church hierarchy, leading to his appointment as Auxiliary Bishop of Cebu on October 24, 2001. He was consecrated bishop on March 19, 2002, by then-Archbishop of Cebu, Ricardo Cardinal Vidal.
As Auxiliary Bishop of Cebu, Bishop Cortes oversaw numerous diocesan commissions and was actively involved in pastoral planning and evangelization efforts. He became known for his articulate preaching, theological insight, and a collaborative leadership style that inspired both clergy and laity. For over a decade, he faithfully served the Archdiocese of Cebu, also acting as Vicar General and often representing the archbishop in major ecclesiastical and civic functions.
On September 28, 2013, Pope Francis appointed Bishop Julito Cortes as the fourth Bishop of the Diocese of Dumaguete, succeeding Bishop John Du who had been named Archbishop of Palo. He was formally installed on December 5, 2013, in a ceremony attended by thousands of faithful, clergy, and civic leaders. As Bishop of Dumaguete, he focused on deepening the faith of the laity, strengthening priestly formation, and promoting a synodal and missionary Church.
Bishop Cortes is widely respected for his gentle demeanor, scholarly contributions, and fidelity to Church teachings. He has championed various causes, including environmental protection, social justice, and cultural heritage preservation. Under his leadership, the Diocese of Dumaguete has taken significant strides in pastoral renewal, youth formation, and active lay participation.