BACOLOD City — Most Rev. Louie Galbines was formally installed as the seventh bishop of the Diocese of Bacolod on August 11, succeeding retired Bishop Patricio Buzon in a ceremony attended by church leaders, priests, government officials and the faithful.
Papal Nuncio to the Philippines Archbishop Charles John Brown presided over the installation of Galbines, who previously served as bishop of the Diocese of Kabankalan in Negros Occidental.
Before the installation rites, a canonical procession was held, led by Galbines and Brown, marking the formal beginning of Galbines’ ministry as the new shepherd of the Diocese of Bacolod.
In his message, Galbines called on Bacolodnons to face life’s challenges with joy and unity.
“Mga Bacolodnon, we continue to smile. I hope our smiles will turn into laughter as we work together as brothers and sisters in the Lord,” Galbines said.
The new bishop also expressed his intention to continue the work started by Buzon while emphasizing the Church’s mission of strengthening the spiritual life of the people.
“We continue what Bishop Pat has started, but of course, it is always the mission to really help the people, rooted in Christ, the spiritual life of the people, because from the spiritual life overflows their day-to-day life,” Galbines said.
He likewise urged priests and the faithful to embrace Jesus’ call to friendship and fellowship with one another.
“For the priests and all of you, we start with a call of Jesus to be friends to one another,” he added.
Buzon retired as bishop of Bacolod in May 2026 after leading the diocese for several years. Galbines was subsequently appointed to succeed him.
Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya welcomed Galbines on behalf of the city government and assured the new bishop of the city’s support as he begins his ministry in Bacolod.
“On behalf of Bacolod City, we welcome Most Rev. Galbines, the newly appointed Bishop of the Diocese of Bacolod,” Gasataya said.
Gasataya highlighted the shared responsibility of the Church and the local government in serving the people of Bacolod.
“The church and the City Hall may have different roofs, but we serve and shelter the exact same people,” the mayor said.
He added that while the Church tends to the spiritual needs of the people and the city government focuses on building the community, both institutions ultimately share the same goal—the dignity and upliftment of every Bacolodnon.
“We are your partners. You have my personal assurance, and the full support of the City Government,” Gasataya said.
“Welcome home, Bishop Louie. May the Almighty bless you, and God forever bless Bacolod City,” he added.
Galbines’ installation marks a new chapter for the Diocese of Bacolod as he begins his ministry in the city, carrying forward the Church’s mission while seeking to strengthen its connection with the people and the wider community./PN
