Fraternity News Council

23/12/2025

Independent Ancient Order of Free Gardeners Philippines Free Gardeners Philippines has taken root in Jaen, Nueva Ecija! 🌿🏛️

It is time to sow the seeds of fellowship and character in new soil. We are officially opening our doors to those in Jaen Nueva Ecija who wish to be part of our historic tradition. Let’s work together to plant more seedlings and watch our community flourish. 🇵🇭🌱

19/12/2025

18/12/2025

ᴀ ʙʀɪᴅɢᴇ ᴀᴄʀᴏꜱꜱ ᴛʜᴇ ꜱQᴜᴀʀᴇ? ꜱᴏʙᴇʀᴀɴᴀ ɢʀᴇᴇᴛꜱ ɢʟᴘ ᴏɴ ᴀɴɴɪᴠᴇʀꜱᴀʀʏ

In a move that has sent ripples through the silent halls of Philippine Freemasonry, the Gran Logia Soberana del Archipiélago Filipino (GLSDAF) has extended a formal greeting to the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of the Philippines (MWGLP), signaling a rare moment of public civility between the two divergent branches of the craft.

While the "Square and Compasses" are universal, the two organizations remain worlds apart in doctrine and recognition. This exchange highlights a century-old schism that defines the landscape of Filipino Masonry. The MWGLP, the largest and most widely recognized body in the country, adheres strictly to the tenets of "Regular" Masonry. Under this conservative Anglo-American tradition, they enforce "exclusive territorial jurisdiction," which dictates that only one Grand Lodge can legally exist within a single country. Because the MWGLP maintains this rigid standard, they officially label any other Masonic body—including the GLSDAF—as "irregular" or "clandestine."

Conversely, the GLSDAF operates under the banner of "Liberal" or Continental Masonry. Tracing its historical lineage back to the Grande Oriente Español, the GLSDAF rejects the idea of exclusive territory. They embrace a pluralistic philosophy that recognizes multiple Masonic jurisdictions within a single nation, prioritizing "freedom of conscience" and progressive reform over the traditional landmarks of the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE). Where the MWGLP sees a violation of law, the GLSDAF sees a diversity of thought.

Not the first time: Batangas Connection

This latest exchange isn't entirely out of the blue. Insiders recall the "Batangas Connection" earlier this year during the Apolinario Mabini Day commemorations in Tanauan. In a scene that stunned many "Brethren in the pews," the Grand Masters of both jurisdictions were spotted in a deep, brief private conversation. After, they attended the public program shoulder to shoulder the entire duration.

The significance of that meeting cannot be overstated. Though the MWGLP formally maintains that the GLSDAF lacks "official" standing, the sight of the two leaders sharing a level of fraternal courtesy suggests a softening of the edges, at least during Grand Master Canon's watch. In the birthplace of the "Sublime Paralytic"—himself a storied Mason—the two leaders seemed to find a common ground that transcends administrative manuals.

What’s Next?

While the MWGLP is unlikely to drop the "irregular" label or change its conservative stance on multiple jurisdictions anytime soon, this greeting proves that the spirit of national unity might be stronger than jurisdictional divides. For now, the "Regulars" and the "Liberals" remain on different paths, but for the first time in years, they are walking them within sight of one another.

📸 glsdaf fb page

18/12/2025

ᴀ ᴛᴀʟᴇ ᴏꜰ ᴛᴡᴏ ɢʀᴀɴᴅ ʟᴏᴅɢᴇꜱ: ɢʟᴘ ʜᴏɴᴏʀꜱ ʟᴏᴘᴇᴢ ᴊᴀᴇɴᴀ ᴡʜɪʟᴇ ꜱᴏʙᴇʀᴀɴᴀ ᴊᴜʀɪꜱᴅɪᴄᴛɪᴏɴ ꜱᴛᴀʏꜱ ꜱɪʟᴇɴᴛ

MANILA, Philippines — In a move that has captured the attention of Masonic historians and Philippine heritage advocates alike, the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippines (GLP) has released a comprehensive tribute commemorating the 169th birth anniversary of national hero Graciano Lopez Jaena.

The tribute, signed by Grand Master Raul E. Canon, Jr., celebrates Lopez Jaena as a "lover of knowledge" and a "brilliant orator." However, the greeting has sparked a quiet debate within the "masonic observers," as the jurisdiction with the strongest historical ties to Lopez Jaena—the Gran Logia Soberana del Archipielago Filipino (GLSdAF)—offered no such public greeting, likely due to a simple administrative oversight according to Fraternity News Council correspondents.

"The Historical Roots: UGLE vs. Grande Oriente"

To understand this discrepancy, one must look at the two distinct branches of the Craft in the Philippines. The GLP follows the tradition of "Regular Freemasonry," which traces its lineage to the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE). This tradition became dominant during the American colonial era and is characterized by a strict prohibition on political and religious discussion within the Lodge. For "Regular" Masons, the focus is on personal moral improvement and charity, maintaining a neutral stance on state affairs to ensure universal harmony among members.

In contrast, the Gran Logia Soberana (GLSdAF) is the direct successor to the "Liberal" or "Continental" tradition of the Grande Oriente Español. This brand of Masonry, which flourished in Spain and France, famously acted as a "laboratory" for social and political reform. Unlike their Regular counterparts, Liberal Masons emphasize "Absolute Freedom of Conscience," which allows for a more secular approach and a historical mandate to actively challenge tyranny and advocate for democratic ideals.

"Lopez Jaena: The Quintessential Liberal Mason"

Graciano Lopez Jaena was the embodiment of this Liberal tradition. He was not a "Regular" Mason in the modern sense; he was initiated in Spain into Logia Porvenir No. 2 and founded Logia Revolución in Barcelona. These lodges were the engine rooms of the Propaganda Movement. For Lopez Jaena, Freemasonry was a powerful political tool used to dismantle the "frailocracy" (the rule of the friars) and secure fundamental freedoms for Filipinos.

His work with La Solidaridad was deeply intertwined with these liberal Masonic networks. While the GLP today emphasizes his character as a "man and Mason," his historical reality was that of a radical reformer who saw the Lodge as a training ground for revolution—a stark contrast to the quiet, apolitical nature of modern Regular Masonry.

"An Overlooked Connection?"

The irony of the current situation is that the GLP has taken the lead in claiming the legacy of a hero who arguably belongs more to the "liberated" tradition of the GLSdAF. While the GLSdAF’s silence is likely a result of the anniversary being overlooked during a busy administrative term, it marks a curious shift in the public narrative.

By honoring Lopez Jaena, the GLP is bridging a historical gap, acknowledging that the seeds of Philippine democracy were sown in the very "Liberal" lodges that challenged the status quo. Even if the jurisdictions remain separate in practice, the memory of Lopez Jaena remains a unifying, if complex, pillar of the Filipino Masonic identity.

📸 MWGLP fb

17/12/2025

17/12/2025

The Upsilon Sigma Phi will be hosting a Watch Party for the UAAP Men’s Basketball Finals, UP Fighting Maroons vs La Salle Green Archers Game 3, at the UP Promenade on December 17, 2025.

The event will begin at 3:00 PM and is open to the public.

See you there!

17/12/2025

08/12/2025

🌿 New Gardener Leaders Installed at Royale Oasis Gardeners Lodge No. 2

Tondo, Manila — The Royale Oasis Gardeners Lodge No. 2 of the Ancient Order of Free Gardeners (AOFG) held a significant installation ceremony on December 7 at the Trust the Process café in Tondo, Manila. A new set of leaders was formally installed to guide the lodge in the coming year.

The new line-up features:

Worthy Master: Mark Neil Limcuando

Senior Warden: Lemmor A. Protacio

Junior Warden: John James C. Paredes

The solemn installation rites were presided over by AOFG Grand Master Rupert Corpuz and Grand Senior Warden Manuel Rodriguez. The event was followed by a degree-elevated ceremony for several members. Preceding the installation, the lodge and its business venue, Trust the Process, were consecrated by one of the members, a Roman Catholic priest.

The Ancient Order of Free Gardeners asserts its heritage directly from the ancient gardeners' societies that originated in Scotland in the mid-17th century. The AOFG in the Philippines proudly claims to be a legitimate successor to this tradition, distinguishing itself from the International Order of Free Gardeners, which established an earlier presence in the country but appears to lack the same direct connection to the Scottish roots.

Historically, the Free Gardeners are said to pre-exist the Freemasons, having established their earliest known lodge records in 1676. Though the two fraternal societies are not directly related, they share many commonalities in their rituals, beliefs, and symbolic language, often leading to an overlapping common membership throughout history. Both use craft imagery—gardening tools for the AOFG and stonemason tools for the Freemasons—as metaphors for individual and moral development. In the Philippines, many members are also enrolled in a masonic jurisdiction though not required.

Interested individuals who wish to inquire about membership in the Ancient Order of Free Gardeners may visit their official website at ancientfreegardeners.org.

07/12/2025

📰 Knights Templar of the Philippines Welcomes New Chevaliers in Solemn Investiture

Quezon City, Metro Manila – The Knights Templar of the Philippines – Ordre du Temple de Jérusalem (OTJ) held a profoundly moving and well-attended Solemn Investiture & Knighting Ceremony on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at the Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Galas, Quezon City.

The event saw a new class of dedicated men and women formally admitted as Chevaliers (Knights) into the Order, affirming their commitment to the Templar vows of honesty, loyalty, charity, and service.

The day-long proceedings, which ran from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, were a blend of sacred tradition and community outreach, also incorporating the Order's annual Christmas Gathering, Charity Activity, and Fellowship Day.

The ceremony was significantly graced by the presence of a notable foreign dignitary from the international body of the Order: Brother Benedict Chak, who traveled to the Philippines to personally witness and support the Investiture. His attendance underscored the strong global ties and recognition of the Philippine Grand Commandery within the worldwide Ordre du Temple de Jérusalem.

A highlight of the day was a video message from the International Grand Master, Ronald Mangum. Grand Master Mangum conveyed his warmest congratulations and prayers to the newly knighted Chevaliers, expressing his profound regret at being unable to attend in person.

His message was met with applause and appreciation from all in attendance, demonstrating the solidarity between the local commandery and the international leadership.

Following the solemn ceremony, the Order transitioned into its annual Charity Activity, providing assistance and goodwill to the local community in the spirit of the Christmas season. The afternoon concluded with the Christmas Gathering and Fellowship Day, allowing brethren, families, friends, and honored guests to celebrate the new Chevaliers and the successful year of the Order's charitable work.

The Knights Templar of the Philippines – OTJ continues its mission to promote Christian unity and demonstrate the benevolent character of God through charitable practices, making the December 6th event a powerful testament to their enduring commitment to faith and service.

06/12/2025

🏛️ Fraternal Unity Shines at Pista ng Karapatang Pantao

Manila, Philippines — A powerful display of fraternal solidarity marked the Pista ng Karapatang Pantao (Human Rights Day Celebration) on December 4, as several prominent fraternal organizations joined forces to commemorate National Human Rights Consciousness Week. The event, a collaboration between the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Manila IV Chapter and the Knights of Columbus (KoC) Manila Council 1000, underscored the commitment of brotherhoods and sisterhoods to advocate for human rights.

The celebration was held at the historic Knights of Columbus Manila Council 1000 Headquarters in Intramuros, Manila. Among the participating fraternal groups were:

Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes (RAOB)

Independent Ancient Order of Free Gardeners (IAOFG)

Noble Order of Fleur de Lis

Kapatiran Manila Lodge 8 of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows (IOOF)

Grand Katipuneros Overland Eagles Club

The gathering commenced with a spirited parade through the streets of Intramuros, setting a tone of unified purpose and public affirmation for the cause of human rights.

The main program featured enlightening lectures by representatives from the Commission on Human Rights (CHR), who provided crucial insights into current human rights issues and the responsibilities of citizens and organizations in their defense.

The event also drew participation from non-fraternal organizations, highlighting a broad societal consensus on the issue. These included the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), the Philippine Law School, Far Eastern University (FEU) Law, and the SANLAKAS NGO.

Signing the Wall of Commitment

The ceremony concluded with a moving and symbolic act: the creation of a Wall of Commitment. Representatives from every organization present, including the five joint fraternities, penned their signatures and pledges to protect and uphold human rights. This action serves as a lasting testament to the enduring vow made by the fraternities to be active stewards of justice and human dignity within the community and the nation.

The Pista ng Karapatang Pantao was a resounding success, demonstrating that the spirit of brotherhood extends beyond the lodge room, actively engaging in vital civic endeavors for the betterment of society.

📷 knights of columbus - manila council 1000

05/12/2025

A true milestone for the RAOB ancient fraternity.

Mabuhay ang RAOB Philippines! 🇵🇭

04/12/2025

Congratulations ⚜️⚔️👏

This is the rousing speech the new Provincial Grand Primo J. Rupert Corpuz has prepared.

Today, November 15, 2025, is not just a simple date on the calendar. This is a momentous occasion, a celebration and recognition of the success of the entire Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes (RAOB) family here in the Philippines 🇵🇭

The Legacy We Have Forged I am truly delighted and overjoyed because we have witnessed the fulfillment of a long-held dream: to establish our very own, independent Minor Lodge & Provincial Grand Lodge here in the Philippines.

Brethren, we cannot deny that the path toward this was full of challenges. We went through numerous trials and tribulations. But with every test, we proved our resilience. This success would not have been possible without the belief and wholehearted support of each and every one of you, our beloved buffs members. Gratitude to Our Mentors.

Allow me to extend my deepest gratitude. First, through the help of our Esteemed Deputy Grand Primo, Sir Robert Mackay, and of course, his father, our Past Grand Primo, Sir David Mackay of Grand Lodge of Victoria GLE. The assistance they provided us, their tireless guidance and support, has been immense. They were the key to making the dream we started a reality, which we have slowly achieved. Thank you very, very much, Sirs! And to all of you, our beloved buff members, who have been so supportive of us – THANK YOU!

Your dedication has given us the strength to continue the fight.

Brethren, I want to emphasize: This is not the end, but a new journey to be started! Our mission is to continue spreading the Good Ancient Order throughout the entire nation of the hilippines. In a short time, we have already consecrated six (6) Lodges, and we have more pending Lodges expected to open in 2026. This means: More charitable works! More service to the nation! More service to the brethren! We are happy and grateful to be part of the growth of this ancient and honorable fraternity, guided by discipline, integrity, and philanthropy.

Long Live the Royal Antediluvian Order of
Buffaloes Philippines!

Provincial Grand Primo Buff Rupert Corpuz, CP
Manila Provincial Grand Lodge
of the Philippines 🇵🇭
under Grand Lodge of Victoria GLE

🇵🇭 🐃