‘Apostolic Nuncio’s visit reminds us that Kalinga is a place of faith, rich culture, and enduring values’ -Vice Gov. Odiem

Tabuk City, Kalinga – Vice Governor Dave Odiem emphasized that the visit of the Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines, Archbishop Charles John Brown, serves as a reminder that Kalinga is a province rooted in faith, rich culture, and enduring values that continue to define its people.

Archbishop Brown arrived in Kalinga on Monday, June 1, to grace the Episcopal Ordination and Installation of Rev. Fr. Sean Mejia as the third Apostolic Vicar of Tabuk at St. William’s Cathedral.

A welcome program was held for the Apostolic Nuncio at the Kalinga Sports Center shortly after his arrival in the province.

Speaking during the program, Odiem said the presence of the Pope’s representative in Kalinga carries a deeper meaning as it strengthens the province’s ties with the Catholic Church and promotes unity among the faithful.

“The province of Kalinga is very humbled and deeply honored by this rare visit. His Excellency’s visit to our province carries a lasting meaning. It brings the people of Kalinga closer to the Holy See, uniting us in shared purpose and Christian solidarity,” Odiem said.

The vice governor described the historic visit as a testament to the strong faith of the iKalingas and an opportunity to build meaningful partnerships that could benefit local communities while showcasing the province’s heritage and values.

“It opens our hearts to the possibility of meaningful collaboration for the good of our people. It reminds us that our province is a place of faith, rich culture, and enduring values,” he added.

Odiem also announced the conferment of the honorary title “Son of Kalinga” upon the Pope’s representative as a gesture of the province’s acceptance, kinship, and respect.

Through Resolution No. 2026-208 adopted by the Provincial Board presided over by the vice governor, Archbishop Brown was bestowed the Kalinga name “Tunggayok,” a title that refers to a spiritual healer and guide who brings peace, wisdom, and moral strength to the community.

The honorary conferment highlighted the province’s desire to strengthen its bond with the Catholic Church while sharing the rich traditions and cultural identity of the Kalinga people.

On Tuesday, June 2, Rev. Fr. Sean Mejia was formally ordained and installed as the third Bishop of the Apostolic Vicariate of Tabuk by His Excellency Most Rev. Charles John Brown at St. William’s Cathedral in Bulanao, Tabuk City.