On September 2, 2024, Grand Master at Work No. 58, Honorable Grand Master Raymund Joseph Ian “Raji” O. Mendoza, embarked on a significant tour of the region following a successful multi-jurisdictional forum organized by the DeMolay Alumni Association of the Philippines (DAAP) in Davao City. This tour led him to Digos City, where he visited Brother Josef Cagas, a fellow member of the Order of DeMolay and the current mayor of Digos City.
Brother Cagas, a member of Mt. Apo Chapter No. 50 and Mt. Apo DeMolay Alumni Chapter No. 27, warmly welcomed Grand Master Mendoza and shared fond memories of his initiation into the Order of DeMolay. He emphasized the profound impact of the camaraderie and lessons learned from DeMolay, which have shaped him into a dedicated public servant for his city.
The visit was also graced by the presence of Honorable Past Centennial Grand Master Adriano “Django” B. Durano III, Grand Standard Bearer and Feliciano Iñigo DeMolay Alumni Chapter No. 1 President, Legionnaire Joy Flores, Grand Organist Brother Fatz Buenafe, and Brothers Melky Durano and Ching Li of Pagadian City Chapter No. 40. Several Senior DeMolays employed at the city hall also attended the courtesy call with Grand Master Mendoza.
This gathering highlighted the enduring bond and shared values among members of the Order of DeMolay, reinforcing the organization’s mission to mentor and develop young men into better individuals. The visit underscored the profound influence of DeMolay’s teachings on its members, as exemplified by Mayor Cagas’s commitment to serving his community.
The event was a testament to the Order of DeMolay’s enduring legacy of fostering leadership, integrity, and service among its members, aptly encapsulated by their motto: “DeMolay: Portals of Our Youth in Raising Better Men.“
Written by: Leg. John Louie Marfil, Chev., LOH, FSLCF, Past President (2013) – Filipino DeMolay Singapore DAC #46
Credits to: DeMolay Philippines FB Page