In a country where Catholicism runs deep through the veins of everyday life, there’s growing concern about who will lead the faithful next.
The Philippines — often called Asia’s Catholic stronghold — is facing a quiet but significant crisis: several dioceses are currently without bishops, and more are expected to follow.
As the local Church looks to Rome for new appointments, many are wondering how long communities can wait without shepherds.
With over 110 million people — 80% of whom identify as Roman Catholic — leadership in the Church isn’t just symbolic.
It’s a crucial part of guiding spiritual and social life across thousands of parishes and communities.
Right now, three major areas are without bishops, and the clock is ticking.
Diocese of Boac Still Waiting for a New Bishop
One of the key dioceses currently without a leader is Boac, located in the island province of Marinduque.
This seat has been vacant since September 21, 2024, when its former bishop, Marcelino Antonio M. Maralit, was reassigned to the Diocese of San Pablo in Laguna.
Bishop Maralit, who also chairs the CBCP’s Episcopal Commission on Social Communication, left behind a vibrant but now leaderless diocese.
Boac is home to around 256,000 people, with a strong Catholic majority — roughly 88% of the population.
Despite having 79 priests, the spiritual demands are significant, with each priest responsible for over 3,200 parishioners.
The diocese is especially active in social justice initiatives, working closely with Basic Christian Communities — small groups that emphasize Bible study, prayer, and local activism.
Highland Communities of Tabuk Await Pastoral Guidance
Further north, the Apostolic Vicariate of Tabuk has also been without an apostolic vicar since December 8, 2024.
The previous vicar, Bishop Prudencio P. Andaya Jr., moved on to lead the Diocese of Cabanatuan, leaving a challenging post behind.
Covering the mountainous areas of Kalinga and Apayao, Tabuk has a population of just under half a million, with roughly 75% identifying as Catholic — many of whom belong to the indigenous Igorot communities.
However, only 31 priests are currently serving this vast area, resulting in a staggering ratio of one priest for every 11,966 people.
That imbalance makes pastoral care incredibly difficult in these remote regions.
San Jose de Nueva Ecija Feels the Void
Meanwhile, the Diocese of San Jose de Nueva Ecija has also been without a bishop since December 12, 2024.
Bishop Roberto Mallari was reassigned to the neighboring Diocese of Tarlac, and so far, a successor has not been named.
This diocese is located in the heart of Luzon’s agricultural zone — often referred to as the “rice granary of the Philippines.”
Most residents are farmers growing everything from rice and corn to coconuts and onions.
With no bishop to lead them, the diocese is navigating a spiritual and administrative vacuum, despite its critical role in the rural fabric of the nation.
What’s Next for the Philippine Church?
For now, the faithful across these dioceses are relying on senior clergy or administrators to keep things running.
But for a Church that plays such a pivotal role in Filipino society — from education and healthcare to disaster relief — the absence of appointed bishops poses a deeper concern.
People aren’t just looking for a figurehead; they want a pastor who knows their needs and walks alongside them.
The Vatican has yet to announce replacements, and until then, communities remain in limbo.
As one of the most deeply Catholic countries in the world, the Philippines is hoping that Rome will act swiftly — because in these regions, the flock is ready, but the shepherd is missing.