Bishop Alberto Uy Named New Archbishop of Cebu
Bishop Alberto Uy of the Diocese of Tagbilaran has been appointed as the new archbishop of Cebu, sources confirmed. This significant leadership change marks Uy as the fifth archbishop to lead the historic archdiocese, a key role in the Catholic Church in the Philippines.
The appointment follows the resignation of Archbishop Jose Palma, who served Cebu for nearly 14 years. Palma stepped down after reaching the mandatory retirement age of 75, a requirement for bishops in the church.
Background and Education of Bishop Alberto Uy
Originally from Ubay, Bohol, Bishop Uy pursued his philosophical studies at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary in Tagbilaran City. He further advanced his theological education by earning a master’s degree in pastoral ministry at St. John Mary Vianney Theological Seminary in Cagayan de Oro City.
Uy also attained his doctorate in sacred theology from the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome between 2002 and 2006. Additionally, he holds a licentiate in sacred theology from the Loyola School of Theology in Quezon City.
Clerical Journey and Leadership Roles
Ordained as a priest in 1993 for the Diocese of Talibon in Bohol, Bishop Uy’s dedication to the church continued to grow. He was appointed Bishop of Tagbilaran in October 2016 by the late pontiff and formally took on the role in January 2017.
His leadership has been marked by active engagement in both spiritual guidance and social issues affecting his community.
Stance on Political and Social Matters
In a joint pastoral letter released in January 2024, Bishop Uy and Bishop Patrick Daniel Parcon urged Catholics to reject a signature campaign aiming to amend the 1987 Constitution. They warned that future generations would hold current leaders accountable if they fall prey to deception.
Moreover, Uy expressed support for proceeding with the Senate’s impeachment trial of Vice President Sara Duterte. He emphasized the importance of due process, stating, “When a public official is accused of serious wrongdoing, it is a moral obligation of our democratic institutions to allow due process to take its course.” He added firmly, “No person is above the law — not even the highest-ranking leaders of the land.”
As the new archbishop, Uy’s leadership will likely continue to influence both religious and civic matters in the region.
For more news and updates on Bishop Alberto Uy, visit Filipinokami.com.
