The February 3–7, 2026 General Assembly and Election
The primary purpose of this year’s General Assembly of the Order of Discalced Carmelites (OCD), Philippine Province of St. Teresa of Jesus, was a singular and sacred task: to discern and elect the new Provincial Superior who will lead the Province for the coming triennium. Every session, prayer, and gathering was oriented toward this spirit of stewardship and the future of the Discalced Carmelite mission in the Philippines.
Guided by Wisdom and Adoration
In preparation for this important election, the Assembly was grounded in deep spiritual and intellectual formation. Most Rev. Elias Ayuban, CMF, JCD, DD, Bishop of the Diocese of Cubao, delivered a keynote conference on Leadership, offering the friars a vision of religious governance rooted in service, humility, and fidelity to the Gospel.
Following his conference, the friars moved from the assembly hall to the chapel for a period of Recollection and Eucharistic Adoration. This time of silent prayer before the Blessed Sacrament became the spiritual heart of the Assembly, allowing the friars to set aside personal preferences and to listen attentively to the promptings of the Holy Spirit before casting their votes.
The Election of Fr. Joey D. Mabborang, OCD
The culmination of this prayerful process took place on February 7, 2026, with the election of Fr. Joey D. Mabborang, OCD, as the new Provincial Superior of the Philippine Province.
His election was formally confirmed by Fr. Miguel Márquez Calle, OCD, Father General of the Order. Fr. Joey will be officially installed during the Provincial Chapter on May 4 – 9, 2026, to be held at the Our Lady’s Hill Center of Spirituality in Bago City, Negros Occidental.
The Province invites the faithful to accompany Fr. Joey with their prayers as he accepts this mantle of leadership and service.
Highlights of a Grace-Filled Week
While the election was the focal point of the Assembly, the week was also enriched by moments of fraternity, prayer, and shared life:
The Opening
The Assembly began with a Eucharistic celebration presided over by the current Provincial Superior, Fr. Reynaldo V. Sotelo, Jr., OCD, invoking the guidance of the Holy Spirit upon the friars and their discernment.
Business Matters
Reports on the life and mission of the Province were presented, followed by constructive discussions on current realities and future directions.
Fraternal Bonding
The friars shared a day of camaraderie during the “DO or Die” Sportsfest at the Quezon City Sports Club, strengthening the bonds of brotherhood and joyful community life.
The Closing
The Assembly concluded with a solemn Mass presided over by Fr. Dan Lim, OCD, which also marked the homecoming of the “Dalaw ni Maria” pilgrim image in connection with the parish’s Golden Jubilee.
As the friars return to their respective missions, they do so with renewed hope, deeper fraternity, and a clear sense of direction. Under the guidance of a new shepherd, the Province continues its journey, committed to living and proclaiming the Discalced Carmelite charism with faith, love, and trust in God’s providence.
