In a world often clouded by uncertainty, gatherings like the 5th Asian Apostolic Congress on Mercy (AACOM) offer a rare space for reflection and renewal. Recently held in Cebu City, Philippines, from October 14th to 19th, this congress brought together religious leaders, scholars, and devotees from across Asia — not just to discuss God’s mercy in theory, but to explore what it means in the lives of those who seek it. 

PALAFOX was well-represented at the event by Architect Felino Palafox Jr., who joined the congress as part of his ongoing commitment to values that unite faith, compassion, and community-building. This commitment is also reflected in our architectural work, including the Divine Mercy Shrine in Cebu. We recently held an exhibit showcasing this project, highlighting the power of design to inspire faith and create spaces for reflection and connection.

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A Message of Hope in a Time of Need

Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma opened the congress with a message that struck a chord with many: “To hope is to believe in something good. But to believe and to have hope is to make something or someone the foundation of hope. For us, our very important source of hope is God.” In a world where hope is often in short supply, his words resonated as a call to anchor ourselves in something greater. For those attending, this was more than a platitude; it was a reminder of the faith that can carry people through life’s challenges.

Esteemed Speakers and Engaging Discussions

The AACOM featured a distinguished lineup of speakers, including:

• Malolos Bishop Dennis Villarojo
• San Jose de Antique Bishop Marvyn Maceda
• Fr. Chris Alar, MIC
• Fr. Patrice Chocholski
• Fr. Kazimierz Chwalek
• Former Supreme Court Justice Hilario Davide

These esteemed individuals shared their insights and perspectives on God's mercy, fostering engaging discussions and deepening the understanding of this profound theme.  

Why Cebu? A Meaningful Location

For those familiar with the Philippines’ history, Cebu holds a special place as the “Cradle of Christianity in Southeast Asia.” It was here, over 500 years ago, that the first seeds of Christianity were planted. Hosting the congress in Cebu was more than symbolic; it was a reminder of the depth of faith in this region and the journey that has spanned centuries. Archbishop Palma’s pride in Cebu as the host city spoke to this legacy, grounding the event in a sense of continuity and resilience.

A Congress Rooted in Legacy

With the ongoing celebration of 500 Years of Christianity in the Philippines, the congress theme, "Gifted to Give," felt particularly poignant. It was a call to action—an invitation to see God’s mercy as a gift meant to be shared. In an era marked by division and discord, this theme offered an alternative vision: one of generosity, compassion, and community. For many attendees, it was a call to be part of a movement that transcends religious boundaries, one that sees mercy as a universal language.

Moments of Faith and Community

The congress wasn’t just about talks and speeches; it was woven with moments of collective faith. From the opening mass led by Papal Nuncio Archbishop Charles Brown at the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño, to the foot procession from the Cebu Provincial Capitol that culminated in a final mass, each gathering was a testament to the power of faith as a force that binds people together.

An Enduring Reminder of Mercy’s Role

Since its beginnings in Manila in 2009, the AACOM has moved across Southeast Asia—each gathering a testament to the shared belief in mercy as a guiding principle. Originally set for 2021 but delayed by the pandemic, this year's congress in Cebu felt particularly significant, reminding those who attended of mercy’s enduring importance, especially during times of crisis.

As the congress closed, attendees were left with more than just the memory of an event. They carried with them a renewed sense of purpose, a challenge to make mercy not just an abstract ideal, but a lived reality. Perhaps, in the end, that’s what gatherings like these are all about—reminding us that faith and mercy are not passive virtues, but active forces that have the power to shape lives and communities alike.

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