Most Rev. Crispin “Bai” Varquez, Bishop-Designate of the Diocese of Tagbilaran, made his Profession of Faith and Oath of Fidelity during the Solemn Vespers at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary in Tagbilaran City, Bohol.
Among those present were Cebu Archbishop Alberto “Abet” Uy, Cebu Archbishop-Emeritus Jose Palma, and other visiting bishops and priests, who gathered for this significant step ahead of Bishop-Designate Varquez’s episcopal installation.
In his reflection, Bishop Bai underscored that episcopal ministry is not a possession of privilege, but a calling to serve the People of God. He appealed to the clergy and faithful of Bohol to walk with him as they begin this new chapter in the life of the local Church.
“I am your brother. Dunay kahinaan, dunay limitation. Pero andam ko nga ihatag akong kaugalingon sa pagserbisyo sa local church sa Diocese of Tagbilaran … I am here with you. I am here for you,” Bishop Bai said.
He also entrusted his episcopal ministry and the local Church to the loving care of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Joseph, praying that, through their intercession, people from all walks of life may come to encounter the loving presence of God.
“Unta sila nga atong mga modelo magtudlo kanato to say yes to the will of God, and to bring Christ to everyone, madato man o mapobre, matiguwang o bata, magwapo o dili gwapo, atong tabangan ang matag usa nga makadiskubre sa presence sa gugma sa Ginoo,” said Bishop Bai.
During the celebration, Bishop Bai’s new episcopal coat of arms was also unveiled. It bears his episcopal motto, “Humilitas et Simplicitas (Humility and Simplicity),” and incorporates distinctive symbols representing both his previous and new dioceses.
The Diocese of Tagbilaran is a suffragan diocese of the Archdiocese of Cebu. It was previously led by Archbishop Uy before his transfer to Cebu in 2025.
Bishop-Designate Varquez is set to be installed as the 8th Bishop of Tagbilaran tomorrow, October 27, at the Tagbilaran Cathedral, Bohol.