Tito Caluag
Tito Caluag | |
|---|---|
| Born | Carmelo A. Caluag November 4, 1958 Manila, Philippines |
| Nationality | Filipino |
| Alma mater | Ateneo de Manila University (AB) Fordham University (MS) |
| Occupation(s) | Jesuit priest, educator, author |
Carmelo "Tito" Caluag (born November 4, 1958, in Manila, Philippines) is a Filipino Jesuit priest, educator, and author. He currently serves as the Executive Director of Caritas Philippines.
Early life and education
Father Tito Caluag was born on November 4, 1958, in Manila, Philippines, to Rodolfo M. Caluag and Josefa H. Caluag. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies from Ateneo de Manila University in 1980 and began teaching at the university in 1979, serving as a faculty member until 1983.
In 1983, he joined the Society of Jesus and was ordained as a priest in 1993. He later pursued a Master of Science in Educational Administration, specializing in Jesuit Secondary School Administration, at Fordham University.[1]
Career
Educator and Jesuit priest
Father Caluag has been deeply involved in education throughout his career. After teaching at Ateneo de Manila University from 1979 to 1983, he served as a faculty and guidance counselor at Ateneo de Zamboanga University from 1987 to 1991. He also became the faculty spiritual formation director at Ateneo de Manila University in 1987, where he played a key role in nurturing the spiritual growth of students and faculty.[2]
Leadership in Caritas Philippines
In June 2024, Father Caluag was appointed as the Executive Director of Caritas Philippines, the social action arm of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines. In this role, he oversees initiatives aimed at addressing poverty, disaster response, and social justice.[3]
Advocacy and social justice
Father Caluag is a vocal advocate for social justice and ethical governance. In a homily during an online Mass, he called on Filipinos to take a stand against corruption, emphasizing the need for collective action to overcome societal challenges. He stated, “It is time that we each take a stand about corruption, and that we be able to do something positive towards overcoming corruption. We must lobby, we must protest, yes, but more importantly, we must agree to come together and become the light to overcome the darkness of corruption.”[4]
Media and writing
Father Caluag has also made significant contributions to media and literature. He hosted the show "Proyekto Pilipino", which focused on civic discussions and nation-building. He is the author of the prayer guide book "Only Your Grace", which offers spiritual reflections and guidance.[5]
Spiritual guidance
Father Caluag is known for his compassionate approach to addressing grief and loss. He has provided spiritual guidance to many, offering hope and encouragement during difficult times. In his writings and homilies, he emphasizes the importance of faith, resilience, and community support.[6]
References
- ^ Addie Cuadra (June 2, 2024). "Caritas Philippines names Fr. Tito Caluag as new executive director". ABS-CBN News.
- ^ Mons Romulo (July 7, 2020). "Fr. Tito Caluag: 'God's great miracle will happen'". The Philippine Star.
- ^ CBCP News (June 2, 2024). "Fr. Tito Caluag is new Caritas Philippines executive director". CBCP News.
- ^ Dexter Cabalza (February 3, 2025). "Clergy's call: Go beyond 'ayuda-driven budget'". Inquirer.net.
- ^ "Fr. Tito Caluag launches new prayer guide book "Only Your Grace"". ABS-CBN Corporate. June 1, 2021.
- ^ Mons Romulo (October 30, 2018). "How to cope with loss & grief". The Philippine Star.