Bishop Elias Lumayog Ayuban Jr.

Bishop Elias L. Ayuban Jr., CMF, JCD, was born on January 1, 1968, in Parang, Maguindanao, and raised in Loay, Bohol. His early education reflected his dedication to learning, graduating with First Honorable Mention from Loay Central Elementary School and as salutatorian from Holy Trinity Academy. He entered the seminary in 1985 and completed his philosophical studies as valedictorian at Saint Anthony Mary Claret College of Philosophy. Later, he pursued theology at Loyola School of Theology, Ateneo de Manila University. Bishop Ayuban made his religious profession on May 5, 1991, with final vows on July 16, 1995. He was ordained a priest of the Claretian Missionaries on March 9, 1996, in Quezon City under the Archdiocese of Manila. His academic achievements include a Licentiate and Doctorate in Canon Law, both summa cum laude, from the Pontifical Lateran University in Rome. As a Claretian missionary, Bishop Ayuban served in various capacities, including Parish Priest at Risen Christ Parish in Tungawan (1996–2000), Rector of Claret Theology House (2004–2008), Local Superior (2009–2010), and Rector of the College Seminary, Provincial Councilor, and Provincial Prefect of Formation (2010–2011). From 2019 to 2024, he served as the Provincial Superior of the Fr. Rhoel Gallardo Province, which oversees missions in the Philippines, Vietnam, Australia, and Myanmar. Beyond these roles, he was a professor of Canon Law at institutions such as the University of Santo Tomas, the Institute for Consecrated Life in Asia, and the Claretianum in Rome. He also served as an Ecclesiastical Judge and held leadership positions in commissions for consecrated life. Bishop Ayuban has authored several works on Canon Law and religious life, including Canonical Issues Related to Religious Life: 200 Practical Questions and Answers (2005, revised and expanded in 2008) and Procedures and Formularies for the Use of Religious Institutes (2011, co-editor). His contributions to academia and ministry reflect his commitment to faith, scholarship, and service. On October 4, 2024, Pope Francis appointed him as the Bishop of Cubao, succeeding Most Rev. Honesto Ongtioco. His episcopal ordination took place on December 3, 2024, at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral of Cubao, coinciding with the Feast of St. Francis Xavier, Patron of Missionaries. Bishop Ayuban brings a wealth of experience and spiritual leadership to the Diocese of Cubao, which serves a vibrant Catholic community in Quezon City. His appointment marks a new chapter of evangelization, drawing on his background in missionary work and expertise in Canon Law. The faithful of Cubao look forward to flourishing under his guidance and vision.