Pope Leo XIV has accepted the resignation of Bishop Jose Corazon Tala-oc from leading the Diocese of Kalibo, according to an announcement made by the diocese on Monday, which coincides with his 75th birthday.
According to church law, bishops must tender their resignation to the Pope when they turn 75 years old; however, it’s unusual for such resignations to be approved immediately.
Tala-oc was the bishop of Kalibo for almost 14 years.
The pope similarly designated Archbishop Victor Bendico of Capiz as the apostolic administrator "sede vacante" for the diocese, serving in this role until a new bishop is chosen.
"We appreciate everyone's comprehension and collaboration during this transitional phase," stated Fr. Justy More, the diocesan chancellor of Kalibo.
The diocese expressed gratitude to Bishop Tala-oc for "his extensive years of dedication to God and His community, particularly the Diocese of Kalibo."
Tala-oc was made a priest for the Diocese of Kalibo in 1979.
In July 2003, he was named the bishop of Romblon and received his consecration into the episcopacy on July 30th. His installation as the bishop of Romblon took place on September 3rd, 2003.
In May 2011, he was appointed as the bishop of his hometown diocese of Kalibo and officially took office on July 20, 2011.
On Monday morning, Tala-oc marked his birthday by attending Mass at Kalibo Cathedral—the very same church where he had been ordained as both a priest and a bishop.
"We pray for each other, and we pray for the Church as we rejoice in the life and blessings bestowed upon us by the Lord," he stated during his sermon.