Road from Talisay to Sibonga to be named after Msgr. Camomot

CEBU, Philippines - The Talisay City council is one step closer to honoring Monsignor Teofilo “Lolong” B. Camomot with his name attached to a Cebu South Provincial Road specifically the roads in Bulacao, Talisay City to Sibonga. 

This as the city council will ask Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia, first district Rep. Eduardo Gullas, and the provincial board to rename the Cebu South Provincial Road in the area of Bulacao to Sibonga after Monsignor Camomot because of his diligence in his pastoral duties, devotion to prayer, and numerous works of charity. 

Vice Mayor Alan Bucao, chairman of the committee on tourism and heritage, and who authored the renaming of the road, said the provincial board may, in consultation with the Philippine Historical Commission, can change the name of the provincial roads within its territorial jurisdiction. 

According to Bucao, the legendary generosity, simplicity of Camomot was attested by so many people and his ability of bi-location — being in two places at the same time — and levitation. 

“He was known for diligence in his pastoral duties, devotion to prayer as well as his numerous works,” Bucao said in his resolution approved last Tuesday’s council session. 

Camomot, at age 74, died in a road accident on Sept. 27, 1988 on his way home to Carcar town from barangay Mabolo, Cebu City.

He was ordained as diocesan of the Archdiocese of Cebu in December 14, 1941, which his first assignment was Parochial Vicar in San Fernando Parish and then to Sta. Teresa de Avila Parish in Talisay City where he stayed for 14 years. 

He was eventually appointed to help the metropolitan archbishop of Jaro as auxiliary bishop in March 23, 1955 at the age of 41 and was given the title as titular bishop of Clysma. His ordination as prelate took place in May 29, 1955.

At 44, he was appointed coadjutor archbishop of the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro in June 10, 1958.

He was given the title as titular archbishop of Marcianopolis. But for some personal reasons, mainly health issues, while waiting for the seating archbishop to retire and have him succeed the cathedra, Archbishop Camomot resigned on June 17, 1970.

In Oct. 15, 2010, the Cebu archdiocese formed a commission to pursue the beatification of Camomot, a native of Carcar who was known for his genuine service and generosity to the poor. 

Claims of miracles attributed to Msgr. Camomot circulated after he was reportedly seen in two different places at the same time while he was still serving the clergy of Cebu, according to Lungsoranon, the official newsletter of the Cebu church.

Evidence of one authentic miracle is needed for the Vatican to declare a member of the faithful blessed.  (FREEMAN)