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Advocates Philippines
Meet The New Bishop Of Pagadian: Father Ronald Timoner Steps Up To Lead The Diocese
Photo credit: CBCP
The Diocese of Pagadian finally has a new shepherd. Pope Francis has appointed Father Ronald Anthony Timoner as the next bishop of the southern Philippine diocese, filling a role that has been vacant since Bishop Ronald Lunas’ passing in January 2024. The Vatican made the announcement at noon in Rome (6 p.m. in the Philippines) on Wednesday, bringing a new chapter for the faithful in Pagadian.
A Well-Traveled and Well-Prepared Leader
At 53 years old, Bishop-elect Timoner brings with him a wealth of experience from both local and international ministry. Hailing from Camarines Norte, he was ordained in 1997 for the Diocese of Daet. His journey has taken him from parish assignments in the Philippines to chaplaincy work in Milan, Italy, and back home, where he served as vicar general and later as diocesan administrator.
Beyond his pastoral work, he has a strong academic background, holding degrees from Holy Rosary Major Seminary in Naga City, the University of Santo Tomas in Manila, and a licentiate in theology from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas in Rome—quite the resume for a future bishop!
A New Era for Pagadian
Timoner steps into his new role at a time when over 1.3 million Catholics across 26 parishes in Pagadian are eager for leadership. With his passion for pastoral work and deep ties to both the local and global Church, he is well-positioned to guide the faithful and strengthen the diocese.
Interestingly, faith and leadership run in the family—his older brother, Fr. Gerard Francisco Timoner, is the current Master of the Order of Preachers (Dominicans) and the first Asian to hold the position.
What’s Next?
As he prepares to officially take over in the coming weeks, all eyes are on how Bishop-elect Timoner will lead Pagadian’s growing Catholic community. Given his strong background in pastoral work and diocesan governance, many are hopeful that his leadership will bring renewed spiritual energy to the region.
With a new bishop at the helm, Pagadian is stepping into a future guided by faith, experience, and a deep commitment to serving its people.
A Well-Traveled and Well-Prepared Leader
At 53 years old, Bishop-elect Timoner brings with him a wealth of experience from both local and international ministry. Hailing from Camarines Norte, he was ordained in 1997 for the Diocese of Daet. His journey has taken him from parish assignments in the Philippines to chaplaincy work in Milan, Italy, and back home, where he served as vicar general and later as diocesan administrator.
Beyond his pastoral work, he has a strong academic background, holding degrees from Holy Rosary Major Seminary in Naga City, the University of Santo Tomas in Manila, and a licentiate in theology from the Pontifical University of Saint Thomas Aquinas in Rome—quite the resume for a future bishop!
A New Era for Pagadian
Timoner steps into his new role at a time when over 1.3 million Catholics across 26 parishes in Pagadian are eager for leadership. With his passion for pastoral work and deep ties to both the local and global Church, he is well-positioned to guide the faithful and strengthen the diocese.
Interestingly, faith and leadership run in the family—his older brother, Fr. Gerard Francisco Timoner, is the current Master of the Order of Preachers (Dominicans) and the first Asian to hold the position.
What’s Next?
As he prepares to officially take over in the coming weeks, all eyes are on how Bishop-elect Timoner will lead Pagadian’s growing Catholic community. Given his strong background in pastoral work and diocesan governance, many are hopeful that his leadership will bring renewed spiritual energy to the region.
With a new bishop at the helm, Pagadian is stepping into a future guided by faith, experience, and a deep commitment to serving its people.
Apr 3, 2025
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