Pope appoints new bishop in Lucena, Philippines

Pope Francis on Saturday appointed a new bishop to the diocese of Lucena in the Philippines.  Fr. Mel Rey Uy, the economer of Romblon Diocese is the new Bishop of Lucena.  He takes over from Bishop Emilio Marquez Emilio who last year reached the canonical retirement age of 75. 

Born in San Agustin, Romblon, January 6, 1968, Fr. Uy completed his philosophical studied at San Pius X Seminary at Roxas, Capiz and theological studies at the University of Santo Tomas in Manila, from where he later obtained a Master’s degree in philosophy.

After his ordination as a priest of Romblon Diocese on May 24, 1994, he was entrusted with the following responsibilities:

1995-1996:  Spiritual director at San Lorenzo seminary, Romblon

1995-2000:  Director of the Holy Rosary Academy of San Augustin, Romblon

1998-2004:  Professor at San Lorenzo Seminary;  parish priest of Our Lady of Mount Carmel parish at Carmen, San Agustin

2004-2009:  Parish priest of St. Antonio de Padua Parish di Agnipa, Romblon;  diocesan chancellor

Since 1999: Director of the Diocesan Commission on Liturgy

Since 2010: Diocesan economer; Director of the Pastoral Secretariat and a Basic Christian Community