OUTSTANDING IBAJAYNONS

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Once in a while we are featuring herein biographical sketches of colorful Ibajaynons,
living or dead, who in their own unique way put Ibajay on the map.
If you know of any Ibajaynon or individual/s who adapted Ibajay as his/her home,
and who, in some way, has contributed something worthwhile his/her town can be proud of, and of whom
you wish to be featured here, kindly submit his/her biographic info for consideration. Thanks.


Most Rev. Ciceron Sm. Tumbocon, D.D.
1922-1990
Bishop of Diocese of Cabanatuan



Bishop Ciceron Sm. Tumbocon, was born on May 6, 1922 in Ibajay, Aklan, to Mauro T. Tumbocon and former Prima Calizo Santamaria..

He went to Ibajay Elementary School, where he finished his elementary studies, graduated as salutatorian of Class 1935.

He finished his classical secondary and minor seminary studies at the St. Vincent Ferrer in Jaro, Iloilo City, Philippines. He proceeded his studies at the University of Santo Tomas Central Seminary in Manila where he obtained his bachelor and licentiate degrees. On March 13, 1948 he was ordained to the priesthood by then Archbishop Michael O’Doherty of Manila just before he turned 26 years old. He graduated Magna Cum Laude on his doctorate in sacred theology at the Angelicum University in Rome, Italy.

He has occupied various ecclesiastical position in the following places:

  • assistant parish priest, Molo, Iloilo City, 1948;
  • assistant parish priest, Jaro, Iloilo City, 1949;
  • vice chancellor, Archdiocese of Jaro, Iloilo City, 1952;
  • parish priest, Pavia, Iloilo , 1952;
  • parish priest, Tigbauan, Iloilo , 1959;
  • parish priest, Tanza, Iloilo City, 1966;
  • vicar general, Archdiocese of Jaro, 1970;
  • served twice as secretary, Apostolic Nunciature, Manila , 1953-1959 and 1970-1979;
  • rector, Pontifico Collegio Seinario Filipino, Rome, Italy, 1979-1982; Also acted as Eccelesiastical Counselor, Philippine Embassy to the Holy See, and member – Permanent Pontifical Committee on International Eucharistic Congress;
  • Appointed coadjutor Bishop of Cabanatuan City, Philippines, on August 18, 1982;
  • Ordained Bishop of Cabanatuan City on October 7, 1982;
  • succeeded Bishop of Cabanatuan City on April 7, 1983;
  • died, as Bishop of Cabanatuan City on November 11, 1990

    Ibajaynons who are predominantly Catholics, were overjoyed with his promotions and achievements in the realm of religion.

    He had been a priest for 42.7 years and as bishop for 8.1 year.

    As bishop and vicar of Christ, his main objectives are: a) faithfulness to Christ; b) devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary; c) adherence to the Church’s teachings; and d) unswerving loyalty to the Holy Father.

    Papal Chamberlain, 1969 and Protonotary Apostolic, 1971 were the papal honors bestowed upon him.