On August 5, 2024, in Manila, Grand Secretary Honorable Edward Y. Chua revealed a notable advancement for the Masonic Youth in the Philippines by announcing the creation of a new Knighthood Priory in Daet, Camarines Norte, within the Bicol Region. This announcement, made before the Supreme Council’s Executive Committee Meeting, was met with considerable excitement by Honorable Grand Master Raymund Joseph Ian “Raji” O. Mendoza.
The new Knighthood Priory, to be named Manuel K. Ong Priory No. 26, Order of Knighthood, is set to be sponsored by the Bicol Bodies of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite of the Philippines. The institution and installation ceremonies are anticipated to take place in the near future, marking a significant milestone for the region.
Grand Secretary Chua, who holds the esteemed position of the Most Puissant Illus. Sovereign Grand Commander of the Supreme Council of the Thirty-Third and Last Degree of Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite Freemasonry of the Republic of the Philippines, has been a strong advocate for the sponsorship of Priories of the Order of Knighthood by various Bodies or Orients of the Scottish Rite. This initiative is part of his broader youth program, which aims to foster leadership and character development among the youth.
The Order of Knighthood is an appendant body of the Order of DeMolay, a fraternity dedicated to teaching young men the principles of good citizenship and building their character. Honorable Grand Master Mendoza, who is one of only 33 Sovereign Grand Inspector Generals (SGIG) of the Scottish Rite Supreme Council in the Philippines, has been a key figure in the growth and development of DeMolay in the country.
The establishment of Manuel K. Ong Priory No. 26 is particularly noteworthy as it is the first Knighthood Priory to be instituted under the biennial term of Grand Master Mendoza. This achievement reflects the Grand Master’s commitment to expanding the influence of DeMolay and promoting its values among the youth.
Historically, DeMolay’s first sponsoring Masonic bodies were Scottish Rite Bodies and Shrine Clubs, highlighting the long-standing relationship between DeMolay and the Masonic community. The addition of Manuel K. Ong Priory No. 26 continues this tradition and strengthens the bonds between DeMolay and the Scottish Rite in the Philippines.
As DeMolay Philippines continues to grow, the establishment of new Priories like Manuel K. Ong Priory No. 26 serves as a testament to the organization’s enduring mission: to provide portals of opportunity for youth, guiding them towards becoming better men and contributing members of society.
Written by: Bro. John Louie Marfil, Chev., LOH, FSLCF, Filipino DeMolay Singapore DAC #46, PP
Credits to: DeMolay Philippines FB Page
