July 23, 2025 – In a significant development for the Church in the region, His Holiness, the Patriarch, has appointed Bishop Ariel Santos as the next Primate of the Territory of Asia. The announcement was formally released to the Territory on Sunday, July 27, 2025, marking a new chapter in the leadership of the Church across the Asian continent. His appointment comes following months of prayerful deliberation and consultation within the Synod and Patriarch's Council.

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The installation of Bishop Santos as Primate will take place at 2:00PM on October 23, 2025, at the Cathedral of the King, the mother church of the Territory of Asia. In a brief statement, Bishop Santos expressed his humility and gratitude for the trust placed in him. “I am deeply honored by this calling and pray for wisdom and grace as I take up this sacred responsibility. I ask for the prayers of all the faithful as we walk together in faith, hope, and love.”

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Church officials say preparations for the installation are already underway, with details to be released in the coming weeks.