ZAMBOANGA CITY — The Archdiocese of Zamboanga marked a historic milestone yesterday, April 10, as it celebrated the 115th anniversary of its canonical erection — a moment that underscored its enduring role as the first local Church in Mindanao.
Established in 1910 by Pope Pius X, the then-Diocese of Zamboanga was born out of the need to provide pastoral care to the growing Catholic population in southern Philippines. Before its creation, the Catholic faithful in Mindanao were under the jurisdiction of the dioceses of Cebu and Jaro. The foundation of a dedicated diocese marked a turning point in the Church’s mission on the island.
The erection of the Zamboanga Diocese was part of a broader ecclesiastical plan initiated by Pope Leo XIII through his 1902 apostolic constitution Quae Mari Sinico. Following through on this vision, Pope Pius X created four new dioceses — Lipa, Calbayog, Tuguegarao, and Zamboanga — along with the Apostolic Prefecture of Palawan, all as suffragans to the then-Metropolitan See of Manila.
The first bishop appointed to lead Zamboanga was Michael James O’Doherty, an Irish clergyman whose leadership shaped the early mission work across Mindanao, the Sulu Archipelago, and Cagayan de Sulu. He would later be named Archbishop of Manila in 1916.
For decades, the Diocese of Zamboanga served as a missionary hub for the Catholic Church in Mindanao. Its efforts laid the groundwork for the eventual establishment of other dioceses and prelatures across the region.
Another landmark in its history came on May 15, 1958, when Pope Pius XII elevated the diocese to the rank of archdiocese. Bishop Luis Del Rosario, SJ, was appointed as the first Metropolitan Archbishop, ushering in a new era of leadership and growth.
Yesterday’s celebration highlighted more than just a date in history — it honored over a century of unwavering faith, cultural dialogue, and pastoral service. Clergy, religious, and lay faithful gathered to reflect on the Archdiocese’s legacy and its continuing mission in a region rich in diversity and resilience.
As the Archdiocese of Zamboanga looks ahead, it remains committed to journeying with the people of Mindanao — bringing the message of peace, compassion, and hope that has guided it for 115 years.