The Province of San Pedro Bautista successfully hosted the 14th East Asia Conference – Common Integration Program (EAC-CIP) from August 3 to 29, 2025, gathering young friars from across East Asia and Oceania for a month-long formation experience.
The program opened with a liturgy and orientation at the Portiuncula Chapel, Provincial House, facilitated by the EAC-CIP team led by Br. Judee Mar Maquinad, OFM. In the evening, Br. Lino Gregorio V. Redoblado, OFM, Minister Provincial of San Pedro Bautista, presided over the Opening Mass, concelebrated by Br. Peter, OFM, Formator of the Province of St. Francis of Assisi in Vietnam.
In his homily, Br. Gregorio emphasized the history of the Common Integration Program, highlighting collaboration, international brotherhood, and the Franciscan mission in today’s world. He also reflected on the Jubilee Year, citing hopelessness, poverty, and ecological destruction as challenges the friars must confront, quoting the late Pope Francis: “Creation is not something to be possessed, but to be celebrated.”
Held under the theme “Integrated Friars as Agents of Hope for Renewed Humanity and Restored Environment in the Context of Asia,” the gathering brought together 33 friars preparing for solemn profession. They represented:
The month-long program was divided into four focus weeks:
Cultural nights, including Vietnamese Night and a Filipino-South Korean-PNG Night, highlighted the friars’ rich cultural heritage through food, music, and traditional performances. Visits to historic churches and museums also deepened their appreciation of Filipino spirituality and history.
The program concluded on August 29 with a Eucharistic celebration at the Postulancy Hall of San Pedro Bautista Friary, presided by Br. Judee Mar Maquinad, OFM, and concelebrated by Br. Irineo Tactac III, OFM, Integration Director.
In his homily, Br. Judee drew inspiration from the martyrdom of John the Baptist and the prophetic witness of Jeremiah, urging the friars to live as missionaries of peace, unity, and ecological care in Asia’s diverse contexts.
The final evening featured a simple dinner and program at Portiuncula Hall. Br. Edwin Peter Dionisio, OFM, Guardian of the Friary, welcomed participants and awarded certificates and tokens. The celebration ended with songs and dances, embodying the Franciscan spirit of fraternity.
The EAC-CIP continues to be a vital venue for fostering intercultural brotherhood, deepening Franciscan identity, and strengthening collaborative mission across East Asia.
Download the EAC CIP Statement
Download the EAC CIP Encounter Document
