TARLAKENYO (February 5, 2026) – Bishop Emeritus Florentino Cinense of the Diocese of Tarlac led a group of nine Tarlac priests in a visit to the House of Representatives in Quezon City on Wednesday, February 4.
During a holy mass held at the Congress, Bishop Cinense spoke to lawmakers. He called on them to lead not only with intelligence but with genuine care and compassion.
He said a leader’s true mark is not their title, but by the hardships they have made easier for others.
“Let us be leaders who listen with empathy before speaking with authority,” the Bishop said. “Let us act with urgency for those who suffer, and serve with a heart that goes beyond political divisions.”
He reminded officials that the country’s heroes fought for a vision of a just and free Philippines, not for any political party.
The holy mass was sponsored by the offices of Speaker Faustino ‘Bojie’ Dy III, Tarlac Representatives Noel Rivera, and Jaime Eduardo Marc Cojuangco.
This weekly religious service is part of a program by Speaker Dy to connect faith and values with the work of governance. The visit from the Diocese of Tarlac highlighted the Church’s role in encouraging ethical and selfless public service.
