(ANS – Parañaque) – Eight Salesians from across the East Asia-Oceania Region were ordained to the diaconate on 23 May 2026 at the Minor Basilica and National Shrine of Mary Help of Christians. Bishop Herman Abcede, RCJ, DD, of the Diocese of Daet, presided over the solemn Eucharistic celebration held on the Feast of Mary Help of Christians. In his homily, Bishop Abcede stressed gentleness as essential to diaconal and priestly ministry, cautioning against a culture focused solely on efficiency. “Souls are touched through gentleness,” he said, urging the ordinands to embody compassionate and patient service in the spirit of Don Bosco. The celebration drew Salesians, relatives and lay collaborators, highlighting the congregation’s missionary character and renewed commitment to serve the young.