Alphonsian Youth Gathering (AYG-2) the gathering of all the youth in the Redemptorist Conference of the Asia & Oceania has officially begun in Cebu, Philippines on May 12, which continues till 20th of May 2026.
The first day of AYG 2 began with an atmosphere unlike any other. From the very morning, the courtyard of the Redemptorist Baclaran Community was already alive with warmth, joy, and excitement. As soon as we arrived, we were welcomed by graceful dancers whose lively movements, accompanied by music and cheerful smiles, immediately created a spirit of celebration. The fatigue from the long journey slowly faded as the enthusiasm of the gathering filled the air.
Delegates arrived from many different countries — Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, India, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, and of course our hosts, the Philippines. Though we came from different cultures and spoke different languages, the spirit of fraternity united us instantly. There was no hesitation or distance among us. Friendships formed quickly through simple greetings, shared laughter, and open hearts.
After registration, we gathered in Romano Hall, named after Fr. Rudy Romano, the Redemptorist priest who disappeared during the political violence of the 1980s. The hall carried not only the energy of the present gathering, but also the memory of faith, sacrifice, and courage.
Inside the hall, the atmosphere became even more vibrant. Each contingent introduced themselves in their own unique way — through songs, dances, cheers, and joyful performances that filled the room with laughter and applause. The youthful energy was contagious. The hosts and MCs kept the program lively and engaging from beginning to end.
Many of the international participants had travelled overnight and were physically exhausted. Heavy eyes and tired bodies were visible everywhere, yet the spirit of solidarity remained strong. Everyone encouraged one another to stay awake, participate fully, and enjoy every moment together.
When participants were asked, “What do you hope to discover in the Philippines?” the answers reflected both sincerity and youthful humor. One participant answered simply,
“I want to meet new friends from Redemptorist communities in other countries.” Another enthusiastically replied, “I want to try lechon, balut, and other Filipino dishes!” The entire hall burst into laughter. Such moments captured the beauty of youth — even in exhaustion, there was still joy, humor, and excitement.
After lunch, everyone returned to the hotel for rest. A few hours of sleep felt like a complete renewal of energy. By 4:30 PM, all participants had returned once again to Romano Hall, where generous Filipino hospitality welcomed us with more food and warm smiles. Soon after, all delegations gathered at Baclaran Church, the National Shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help, for the Opening Eucharistic Celebration.
The Holy Mass began at 5:30 PM with the solemn entrance of the large AYG Cross, carried by representatives from each participating country. As the cross slowly processed into the church, the entire congregation stood and applauded with deep emotion. In that sacred moment, it felt as though all the long journeys, sacrifices, struggles, and hopes of the young people from many nations were united beneath the Cross of Christ.
One of the most touching moments of the celebration came when the Icon of Our Mother of Perpetual Help was brought down from the high altar and placed closer to the people. It was as though Mary herself had come near to embrace her children. Not only were the faithful approaching Mary, but Mary herself seemed to come forward to welcome her sons and daughters with tenderness and love.
During this Eucharistic celebration, AYG 2 was officially opened in a profound spirit of prayer, unity, and fraternity. The Mass was presided over by Bishop Marcelino Antonio Maralit Jr., together with Fr. Kimmy Ndelo, Coordinator of the Asia Oceania Conference, along with many other priests. In his homily, the bishop warmly greeted the assembly: “Blessings to all of you this evening.” He encouraged the young people to open their hearts and never think that youth is an excuse to avoid responsibility. “Youth should never be an excuse. Youth always has responsibility.” One sentence from his homily deeply touched everyone present: “God wishes everyone to be a saint.” He reminded us that the missionary spirit is urgent and necessary today. Young people are not merely the future of the Church — young people are the Church of today.
The celebration continued into the evening with the Welcoming Night held in front of Baclaran Church. The atmosphere became even more joyful with music, animation dances, singing, and cultural performances. Everyone enthusiastically joined in singing “When Jesus Says Yes, Nobody Can Say No,” filling the night with laughter, dancing, and youthful energy.
The evening concluded with a moving musical drama that conveyed powerful messages about faith, struggle, vocation, and the mission of young people in today’s world. As we finally returned to the hotel, our bodies were tired and our eyes heavy with sleep, yet our hearts were filled with gratitude. There was exhaustion. There was sleepiness.
But the joy of fellowship and the spirit of unity were far greater than all our tiredness.
Fr. Willy Ngongo Pala, CSsR.
DAY 2 of AYG 2026 in Cebu, Philippines
From Morning Coffee in Baclaran to the Festive Spirit of Cebu
The second day of AYG unfolded in a more relaxed and joyful atmosphere after the intense schedule of the previous day. Early that morning, participants once again gathered at Romano Hall, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the room. Some sat together exchanging stories and reflections from the first day, others still carried traces of sleepiness after the long activities, while many eagerly captured photos and moments before continuing the journey ahead. Slowly but surely, strangers from different countries were becoming one family, united by friendship, faith, and shared experiences.
As the group was scheduled to travel to Cebu later that day, everyone had already checked out from the hotel and brought their luggage along. To make identification easier, the bags of participants from Indonesia, Vietnam, India, and Singapore-Malaysia were marked with bright yellow ribbons. One participant jokingly remarked, “If you see a yellow ribbon, that must belong to an AYG participant,” drawing laughter from those nearby.
The morning began with the Pilgrim Prayer of Mary, followed by an introduction to the National Shrine of Our Mother of Perpetual Help and the significance of the famous Baclaran Marian icon. Participants learned that Baclaran is not merely a church building, but a living center of faith where thousands gather every week carrying their prayers, burdens, hopes, and thanksgiving. Many were deeply touched by the witness of devotion they encountered there. One young pilgrim from Indonesia shared with amazement, “We were surprised to see the church completely full during the novena.” Indeed, Baclaran radiated a spiritual atmosphere difficult to describe in words — a place where silence, prayer, and faith seemed to breathe through every corner.
The participants were then guided through the Redemptorist monastery and church complex, visiting ministry centers, prayer spaces, and pastoral areas closely connected with the daily lives of ordinary people. Before leaving, all the delegates gathered inside the church for a final group photo, while another novena session was already beginning and crowds of faithful continued arriving without pause.
Soon afterward, the journey continued southward to Cebu, which would host the next phase of AYG activities. Excitement grew among the participants as they anticipated live-in experiences with families, cultural presentations, immersion programs, and gatherings with young people from across Asia-Oceania. The first batch departing consisted of participants from Indonesia, Vietnam, India, and Singapore-Malaysia, travelling with Cebu Pacific Airlines. Amid the bustle of loading luggage into vans and organizing groups, the local organizers worked tirelessly to ensure everything ran smoothly.
Despite the intense Manila heat, which reached nearly 34 degrees Celsius, spirits remained high. Along the way, however, the group faced a brief moment of concern when one participant experienced an asthma relapse due to the extreme weather conditions. Thankfully, the medical team and accompanying confreres responded quickly and compassionately, allowing her condition to improve before the journey continued. The experience became another reminder of the care and solidarity growing among the participants.
After checking in at the airport and enjoying packed lunches together, the delegates finally boarded their flight. A short delay due to runway traffic only added to the excitement and anticipation. By around 2:30 in the afternoon, the plane landed smoothly at Mactan Airport in Cebu. Immediately, participants noticed the difference in atmosphere — the air felt cooler, calmer, and more relaxed than Manila. Smiles returned quickly as everyone helped one another collect luggage and prepare for the next stage of the journey.
Outside the airport, the welcome from the Cebu organizers was warm and enthusiastic. Tourist buses, escorted by police, brought the delegates across the famous Mactan Bridge toward Saint Alphonsus Retreat House. Along the way, even a minor incident involving low-hanging cables catching on the bus roof became a moment of laughter and cooperation, as police officers and local residents quickly stepped in to help.
Upon arriving at Saint Alphonsus House, the participants were greeted with music, dancing, applause, and joyful hospitality. The lively cultural performances, especially the dances from Davao, immediately energized the crowd. After registration and receiving their AYG kits, participants enjoyed Filipino snacks and dinner together, with the famous lechon quickly becoming a favorite among many international visitors.
As evening fell, the opening celebration grew more meaningful and festive. Prayerful dance performances accompanied by the song Still by Hillsong Worship created a moment of silence and reflection, while the singing of Dahil Sa’Yo and the AYG theme song united everyone in joyful celebration. Delegates from India, Japan, Thailand, and Sri Lanka also arrived that evening, making the international spirit even more vibrant. Traditional Filipino dances, especially the Santo Niño Dance, beautifully reflected the country’s rich cultural heritage influenced by Spanish tradition.
The night concluded with fireworks illuminating the Cebu sky as young people danced, laughed, and celebrated together in a spirit of hope and unity. Soon after, each delegation departed for their respective live-in destinations, carrying with them excitement, gratitude, and a growing sense of mission.
The journey, it seemed, had only just begun.
DAY 3 of AYG 2026 in Cebu, Philippines: From Chapel Corners to Volleyball Cheers
The third day of the immersion program became a deeply personal experience marked by simple moments of prayer, community life, and joyful encounters. The day began with morning prayer and breakfast with the host family of Danny and Jessica, whose simple yet welcoming home reflected genuine hospitality and peace.
Afterward, the participants attended Mass at the Sacred Heart Chapel, presided over by Fr. Bank from Thailand. In the homily, Fr. James reminded the young people that their presence at the Asian Youth Gathering was not accidental but part of God’s plan and preparation for their future mission.
The participants then visited different apostolic mission sites, including livelihood centers, rehabilitation communities, family homes, and ministries serving people affected by leprosy. One meaningful visit was to the WALSH detergent-making project, which supports local families through dignified work. They also visited weaving groups preserving traditional crafts and a community-managed water project providing free drinking water to thousands of families as an act of solidarity.
Some groups visited rehabilitation centers for people recovering from drug addiction, witnessing the community’s patient accompaniment and hope-filled support. Along the way, participants prayed in small Basic Ecclesial Community chapels where faith and neighborly support remain vibrant.
Fr. Pio Makabenta CSsR explained that priests in these communities often serve as father figures, closely accompanying people through daily struggles and helping resolve community concerns together with local leaders.
In the afternoon, participants gathered with children at the Santa Cruz BEC Chapel for catechetical activities. The children expressed through drawings what makes Mother Mary happy—flowers, happy families, homes, and peace—revealing simple but profound hopes for love and harmony.
The day ended with lively volleyball games between local residents and foreign delegates at the barangay hall. Despite language differences, laughter, sports, and shared joy created a strong spirit of brotherhood.
The experience taught everyone that God is often encountered not in extraordinary events, but in simple homes, shared meals, children’s smiles, and communities that sincerely care for one another.
DAY 4 of AYG 2026 in Cebu, Philippines
AYG 2026 Immersion Journey deepens through Faith, Service, and Silence
The fourth day of the Asian Youth Gathering (AYG) 2026 immersion experience brought young people from across Asia into deeper moments of prayer, reflection, service, and encounter with local communities in Cebu, Philippines.
The day began in the foster homes where participants have been staying during the immersion program. Together with their foster families, the young people gathered for morning prayer before sharing a simple breakfast and preparing for the day’s activities. The atmosphere in the homes has grown warmer each day, as participants and host families gradually relate to one another not as strangers, but as one family.
Later in the morning, all participants gathered at the chapel for the celebration of the Eucharist. The Mass was presided over by Fr. Jinjoe, together with Fr. Louis Menezes and Fr. Peter B. In his homily, Fr. Louis invited the young people to reflect on the meaning of the word “JOY.” “J stands for Jesus,” he explained, reminding the participants that true and lasting joy comes only from Christ, not from temporary worldly achievements or possessions. “O stands for Others,” encouraging young people to grow in service, compassion, and concern for other people. Finally, “Y stands for You,” emphasizing the importance of personal growth, faith formation, and becoming a person who brings hope and joy to others. The message resonated deeply with many participants because of its simplicity and relevance to the realities faced by young people today.
During the Mass, the community also celebrated the birthday of Fr. Agustin Phi Lee from Vietnam. On behalf of the ASIOC Youth Commission and the young people of Asia, participants expressed gratitude for his service and dedication to youth ministry. Fr. Phi serves as one of the commission members and as the Asian representative in the General Government for youth communications.
After the Eucharistic celebration, participants visited a rehabilitation center for children in conflict with the law, located beside the city jail and managed by the local government. The center, focused on rehabilitation and reintegration, currently accommodates 11 children. Dr. Michael, who welcomed the group, explained that the program seeks to help the children rebuild their lives through education, counselling, discipline, spiritual formation, and family involvement.
The young visitors learned that many of the children come from difficult backgrounds and are undergoing a process of healing and transformation. Family days, psychological accompaniment, educational support, and community-based programs are all part of the rehabilitation journey. The visit became one of the most moving experiences of the day. Participants were reminded that every child deserves dignity, compassion, and a second chance.
In the afternoon, the immersion activities continued within the various Basic Ecclesial Communities (BECs). Each community organized its own activities, creating opportunities for cultural exchange, friendship, and deeper encounters between the delegates and the local faithful.
The day concluded with a farewell dinner shared with the local communities and foster families. The evening carried a mixture of gratitude and sadness as participants prepared to say goodbye to the people who had welcomed them so warmly into their homes and lives. After dinner, the young people gathered once more in the chapel for a Taizé prayer service. In an atmosphere of silence, candlelight, and meditative songs, participants were invited to bring before God all the experiences, emotions, and encounters of the immersion journey.
The moment of silence became a powerful reminder that young people do not only seek celebration and activity, but also spaces of contemplation where they can listen to the voice of God. United in prayer despite coming from many countries and cultures, the young people of Asia ended the day reflecting on Christ’s words: “I am the way, the truth, and the life.”
For many participants, the fourth day of AYG 2026 became a journey of discovering true joy — a joy rooted in Jesus, shared with others, and nurtured within oneself.
DAY 5 of AYG 2026 in Cebu, Philippines
Growing Together in Mandaue: AYG 2026 Immersion Experience Strengthens Faith and Friendship
MANDAUE CITY, Cebu — The fourth day of the Asian Youth Gathering (AYG) 2026 immersion program became a meaningful journey of unity, prayer, service, and friendship for young participants from different countries across Asia.
The day began early in the morning near the Barangay Jagobiao office, where participants gathered for a tree-planting activity. Along the roadside, prepared holes and small mulberry trees awaited the young delegates, who planted them together as symbols of hope, solidarity, and lasting friendship.
Although simple, the activity carried deep meaning for many participants. The trees, planted beside the main road, will remain as a living reminder of the presence of young people from many nations who came together to build friendship and hope within the local community.
After the activity, participants returned to their foster homes to prepare for departure to the main venue in Cebu City. The atmosphere gradually became emotional as the young people prepared to say goodbye to the families who had welcomed them warmly during the immersion experience. Simple gifts and souvenirs were exchanged as signs of gratitude and affection.
The community then gathered for the closing Eucharistic celebration of the immersion program. The Mass became a moment of thanksgiving for the relationships formed during the four-day stay in the local communities. Many participants expressed surprise at how quickly strangers had become like family.
Following the Eucharistic celebration, lunch was shared at the Barangay Hall together with parishioners and local residents. Traditional Cebuano food was served, but more memorable than the meal itself was the spirit of togetherness experienced by everyone present.
Fr. Pio Makabenta reflected on the impact of the gathering on the local community.
“There are different political views among people here, but AYG helped bring people together again. It is beautiful to see people greeting one another again,” he shared.
His words highlighted one of the deeper fruits of the immersion experience: the ability of faith and encounter to bridge divisions and restore human connection.
In the afternoon, participants traveled to Saint Theresa College in Cebu City, where the larger AYG program continued. Different national contingents prepared exhibits presenting their cultures, spirituality, and local traditions. The venue quickly became filled with music, colors, smiles, and cultural exchange.
Later in the day, the atmosphere shifted from celebration to contemplation during the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. Participants were also given the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation. In silence and prayer, many reflected on their experiences, challenges, and hopes.
The evening concluded with dinner, testimonies from the immersion journey, and joyful performances of the AYG theme song and animation dances. Participants shared moving stories about hospitality, friendship, and the kindness they encountered despite language and cultural differences.
For many young people, the immersion experience in Mandaue became a reminder that genuine human connection does not depend on speaking the same language, but on openness, compassion, and shared faith.
As the participants prepared for the next stage of AYG 2026 under the theme “YES — Youth, Empower, Sent,” they carried with them a renewed hope: that when young people open their hearts to one another, the world can become a brighter and more united place.
Day 6 at AYG 2026 in Cebu: “Cool Breeze of Mission”
The sixth day of the Asian Youth Gathering (AYG) 2026 in Cebu brought a renewed sense of energy, joy, and mission among the young participants. The cooler morning atmosphere reflected the refreshed spirit of the delegates as they gathered once again at Saint Theresa College Hall after several days of immersion activities.
The day began with participants reconnecting, sharing stories, and meeting new friends from different countries. A simple activity invited everyone to exchange Bible verses and reflections with strangers, creating meaningful encounters despite language barriers.
The main session featured a talk on the AYG theme “YES” by Samuel Leidel, who reminded the young people that their mission begins with Jesus. He emphasized that young people are not only the future of the Church but an essential part of the Church today, called to use their gifts in service and discipleship.
During the sharing session, several participants spoke honestly about their faith journeys and vocation. Roswita from Indonesia shared that “being sent is being me,” while Zoey from Thailand reflected deeply on mission and trust in God’s care.
In the afternoon, delegates joined various formation tracks on topics such as youth leadership, evangelization through AI, care for creation, accompaniment, and missionary discipleship. At the same time, youth ministry coordinators from across Asia Oceania met to discuss the future direction of youth ministry in the region.
Later, participants celebrated the Mass of the Ascension of the Lord, reflecting on the theme “Youth, Empower, Sent” and their call to become missionaries in daily life.
The evening became a celebration of unity and gratitude as participants sang the AYG anthem “One Encounter, One Family, One Mission” and welcomed alumni from previous AYG gatherings. The day concluded with praise and worship led by Youth for Christ Cebu, where testimonies, prayer, music, and moments of silence deeply touched many participants.
For many young people, the sixth day became a reminder that God often works through simple encounters, friendship, and shared faith, assuring them that they are never walking alone.
Day 7 at AYG 2026 in Cebu: Young, Joyful, and Holy
The seventh and final day of the Asian Youth Gathering (AYG) 2026 in Cebu was marked by joy, gratitude, and emotional farewells as participants reflected on the experiences and friendships formed throughout the week.
The day began with the Eucharistic Celebration in honor of Saint Gerard Majella. The relic of St. Gerard was displayed near the altar, and participants received a blessing with the relic at the end of Mass. In the homily and later reflections, young people were encouraged to understand holiness not as something extraordinary reserved for a few, but as a daily calling rooted in trust in God, simplicity, service, and joy.
During a sharing session, Br. Larry Lujan CSsR introduced the life and spirituality of St. Gerard Majella and the history of the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer founded by Saint Alphonsus Liguori. Participants were reminded that true holiness begins with listening to God and remaining faithful in ordinary life.
The day continued with group discussions and reflections on faith, mission, and hope for young people today. Many participants shared personal experiences about service, prayer, and finding joy in following Christ.
In the late afternoon, delegates joined the traditional Filipino Santa Cruzan Marian procession from the Church of Our Mother of Perpetual Help to Saint Theresa College Hall. The colorful celebration of faith, music, and community highlighted the spirit of unity among participants from different countries and cultures.
The evening cultural program featured dances, songs, and performances from different Asian countries, creating a joyful atmosphere of friendship and cultural exchange. During the closing moments, Thailand was officially announced as the host of AYG III in 2029, receiving enthusiastic applause from the participants.
As AYG 2026 came to an end, the young people departed from Cebu carrying not only memories and friendships, but also renewed hearts inspired to serve, to dream, and to pursue holiness in everyday life.
Day 8 at AYG 2026 in Cebu: The Event Ended, the Mission Begins
The eighth and final day of the Asia Oceania Redemptorist Youth Gathering (AYG) 2026 in Cebu carried a different feeling from the very start. There was joy in our hearts because of the beautiful memories we had shared, but there was also a quiet heaviness as the reality of parting slowly sank in. That is what happens when people journey together and grow close—saying goodbye is never easy.
The day began with the closing Mass at Our Mother of Perpetual Help Church in Cebu City, presided over by Fr. Edilbert Ceppe together with fellow Redemptorist priests, both young and senior. Although the celebration started a little later than planned due to some participants arriving late, everything still proceeded smoothly, thanks to the parish Mass held beforehand.
At 8:30 a.m., the Eucharistic celebration officially began. This was not simply the final Mass of the gathering; it was a thanksgiving celebration for the grace and success of AYG 2026. Over the past days, young people from different countries, languages, cultures, and backgrounds had come together as strangers, yet they would return home with one shared conviction: we are one family.
One of the most moving moments of the celebration came at the end of the Mass, when the AYG Cross was officially handed over to Fr. James CSsR and Fr. Bank CSsR, marking the beginning of the journey toward AYG 2029.
The Cross was not merely an object passed from one hand to another. It was a symbol of faith being entrusted to a new generation—a relay baton of mission, hope, and commitment. From AYG II to AYG III, a new chapter had begun. It was a reminder that young people are sent forth to become witnesses of joy, bearers of hope, and instruments of God’s love in the world.
Messages of gratitude were also shared by the coordinator and the chairperson of the organizing committee. Heartfelt thanks were expressed to all the committee members who offered their talents, energy, time, and even sleepless nights to make AYG II a meaningful and life-giving experience for everyone.
After the Eucharistic celebration, the journey continued with visits to important Redemptorist historical sites in Cebu. The first stop was the original Our Mother of Perpetual Help Church in Lapu-Lapu, where the first Redemptorist missionaries arrived in 1906 and began their missionary work in Cebu. From that humble place, a small seed of mission was planted—one that would later grow into a vibrant ministry touching countless lives.
Following lunch, participants visited Magellan’s Cross, a historic symbol of the arrival of Christianity in the Philippines. The group also explored Fort San Pedro, a site rich in stories of the nation’s past, before continuing to the National Museum.
By then, evening had quietly arrived. Tired and sleepy after a long day, everyone returned to Our Mother of Perpetual Help Church in Cebu City.
This church itself carries a story. Years ago, it stood far from the busy city, surrounded by only a few homes and quiet streets. Today, the city has grown around it, filled with life and movement. Yet one thing has never changed: God’s love continues to remain present and active there.
Then came the moment no one had wanted to think about from the beginning.
It was time to go home.
Time to say goodbye.
Some embraced their friends tightly, not wanting to let go. Some exchanged small gifts and souvenirs. Some quietly held back tears, while others laughed and gathered for one final photo together.
But those who left were not the same people who had arrived.
They returned home with fuller hearts. They went home with joy. They went home as young missionaries carrying hope.
AYG was not simply a gathering of young people. It became a sacred space where young Redemptorists could meet, share stories, strengthen one another, and walk together with young people in the same mission of faith.
The event may have ended.
But the real mission has only just begun.
Reflection
Sometimes we imagine mission as something that happens far away—in another country, across oceans, or in distant lands. But often, the first mission begins when we return home, carrying renewed hearts and a new way of living.
Young people, do not be afraid to dream big. God does not seek perfect people; He seeks hearts that are willing to walk with Him. Never say, “I am still young, I cannot do it.” Youth carries fire, energy, creativity, and courage to build something new.
And for Redemptorist missionaries, mission does not end at the altar, in meetings, or in major events. Mission continues in walking with young people, listening to them, believing in them, and giving them space to become proclaimers of the Good News themselves.
AYG may be over, but the Cross continues to move.
And now, that Cross is in our hands.
Keep walking. Do not be afraid.
Because hope has feet to move forward, and God’s love always finds a way to reach countless hearts.
