A 44-year-old priest, Fr. Amador Tumbaga, is the new leader of the Claretian missionaries in the Philippines, the religious congregation of Bishop-elect Elias Ayuban Jr of Cubao.
The congregation announced Thursday the appointment of Tumbaga as the new superior of its Philippine Province, now known as the Fr. Rhoel Gallardo Province in honor of the martyred missionary priest.
He replaced Ayuban, who will assume his new ministry as bishop on December 3.
Tumbaga’s immediate role is to prepare the congregation for its upcoming provincial chapter in January 2025, where a new provincial superior and other officials will be elected.
“We are confident in his ability to lead our community during this time of transition. Please join us in offering our prayers and support as he assumes his new role,” the congregation said.
“Let us also continue to pray for Bishop-elect Elias L. Ayuban, Jr. CMF as he prepares for his episcopal ministry,” it added.
READ: Pope Francis picks Claretian priest as new Cubao bishop
Born in Tiaong town’s Lusaka village in Quezon province in 1980, he made his first profession in 2002 and his perpetual profession in 2007.
Tumbaga was ordained a Claretian priest on Dec. 8, 2007.
Since 2019, he has served as the congregation’s Prefect of Spirituality and Provincial Vicar.
His previous assignments include formator, prefect of students, novice master, and local économe.
He also taught philosophy in the seminary for many years and served as Prefect of Formation and Provincial Secretary for the Claretians.
At present, Tumbaga is the Vice Postulator for the cause of martyrdom for Fr. Gallardo.
