Bishop-elect Fr. Gerardo Fortich Saco Jr.
Gerardo Fortich Saco Jr. has announced that he will no longer proceed with his episcopal ordination scheduled for May 26, 2026, citing a “change of heart” after prayer and discernment.
In an official statement, Saco said the decision came after “much prayer and careful discernment,” adding that it was rooted in a deep awareness of his “human limitations and inadequacies.”
He appealed for understanding from the faithful of the Diocese of Tagbilaran and assured them of his continued commitment to serve as a priest.
“Please be assured of my continued commitment as a priest, to journey with you in faith in the Risen Lord,” he said.
Saco had been serving as diocesan administrator before his appointment as the eighth bishop of the Diocese of Tagbilaran.
Pope Leo XIV appointed him on March 25, 2026, following months of vacancy in the diocese after the transfer of Alberto Uy to the Archdiocese of Cebu.
No further details have been disclosed regarding Saco’s decision.
Tags: #GerardoSaco #Tagbilaran #CatholicChurch #BishopElect #PopeLeoXIV #Philippines #ChurchNews #Ordination #Bohol #Religion
