A Historic Milestone of Faith and Commitment: Alagad ni Maria Welcomes New Novices and Newly Professed Brothers

        On the morning of June 8, 2025, the Alagad ni Maria reached a historic milestone in its journey of faith and service, as the Congregation celebrated the Acceptance to Novitiate and First Profession of Vows at the serene and sacred Karmelo Chapel in Brgy. Tongohin, Infanta, Quezon Province. The event began at 8:00 AM with a solemn Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Fr. Anthony Bautista, AM, Vicar Moderator of the Alagad ni Maria, together with other priests of the Congregation.

 With joyful hearts, the community witnessed the largest number of brothers ever accepted into the Novitiate in the history of the Alagad ni Maria. The following nine young men responded courageously to God's call and were formally welcomed into the Novitiate:

• Br. Maurecio Tuibeo

• Br. Mark Tristan Traqueña

• Br. Dennis Tuazon, Jr.

• Br. Jhastine Somera

• Br. Cyrus John Tamayosa

• Br. Mc Gabriel F. Belda

• Br. Allen Gabitanan

• Br. Dashel Pajaroja

• Br. Mark Angelo Ajento

Their formation will be guided by Fr. Raymond Vijandre, AM, the Formator and Superior of the Novitiate House in Infanta.   Another significant part of the celebration was the First Profession of Vows of three brothers, who have taken a deeper step in their religious journey, publicly professing the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience:

• Br. Anthony Antonino, AM

• Br. John Oliver Senadan, AM

• Br. John Lloyd Arca, AM

       Their “yes” to the Lord is a testimony of faith and commitment, and a source of inspiration to all in the AM community and beyond.

    Also present at the occasion were the AM priests and formators who continue to guide the formation of future Alagad ni Maria religious:

• Fr. Mark Aaron Riomalos, AM, Formator of Aspirants and Postulants and Superior of the San Pablo Community

• Fr. Juvy Crisostomo, AM, Assistant Formator of Aspirants and Postulants

• Fr. Dexter Nebrida, AM, Formator of Temporary Professed and Apostolate Director

• Fr. Aaron Niño Galvizo, AM, Formator and Superior of the Iloilo Community

• Fr. Janver Laguitan, AM, Parish Priest of Jomalig Island

• Fr. Ericson Laguna, AM, Parish Priest of St. Joseph Parish in NAPOCOR Village, Quezon City

• Fr. Michael Antalan, AM, Parish Priest of Holy Family Quasi Parish in Cuyambay, Tanay

• Fr. Florante Moren, AM, Fr. Renante Orain, AM, and Fr. Randy Sampinto, AM

         The event was graced by the presence of the brothers’ family members, friends, and the larger AM community. Their presence offered support and encouragement as these young men take bold steps in their religious vocation.

          The celebration marks not only a personal milestone for each brother but also a renewed vigor and hope for the mission of the Alagad ni Maria. As the Congregation continues to grow, it stands as a testament to the enduring call to serve God and His people.