Archdiocese of Cotabato – What You Need to Know
If you live in Mindanao or follow Philippine Catholic news, the Archdiocese of Cotabato shows up a lot. It covers a huge area, from bustling towns to remote villages, and works on education, health and peace projects. This page gives you the basics so you can understand why it matters.
What the Archdiocese Does
The archdiocese runs schools, hospitals and youth groups. Its teachers use simple lessons that mix faith with everyday skills, so students get both knowledge and values. Health clinics offer free check‑ups during outreach trips, especially in places where doctors are scarce.
Peacebuilding is another big focus. Leaders organize dialogue meetings between different religious groups to keep violence down. They also support families affected by conflict with counseling and food drives. Those programs have helped lower tension in several barangays.
How to Get Involved
Want to help? You can volunteer at any of the parish centers – most need hands for kitchen work, tutoring or driving patients to the clinic. If you’re a professional, offer your skills; doctors and teachers are always welcomed.
Staying updated is easy. The archdiocese posts weekly bulletins on its website and social media pages. Sign up for the newsletter to get news about upcoming masses, charity drives or community fairs straight to your inbox.
Finally, if you’re looking for a place to pray or attend mass, check the schedule of the main cathedral in Cotabato City. They hold services in English, Filipino and local languages, so everyone feels included.

Three Eminent Cotabato Priests, Including Advocate Fr. Jun Mercado, Succumb to COVID-19
Caspian Mortensen Aug, 17 2024 0The Archdiocese of Cotabato is mourning the loss of three esteemed priests due to COVID-19. Fr. Jun Mercado, a respected advocate and community service leader, passed away on May 31, 2021. Fr. Amado Picardal and Fr. Socrates Mesina, equally dedicated to their religious and social work, also succumbed to the virus. Their deaths have deeply impacted the community and fellow clergy.
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