GMR1

April 24, 2020

The Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of
Free & Accepted Masons of the Philippines
City of Manila

GRAND MASTER’S REPORT
For Masonic Year 2019-2020
My dear brethren:
For the consideration of the 104th ANCOM, I am pleased to report the
highlights of our accomplishments for the term involving the exercise of
executive, judicial and legislative powers of the Grand Master under the
Masonic Constitution.

I. EXECUTIVE FUNCTIONS
A. MASONIC GROWTH
1) New Masons for the year (930). - For this term, we have raised a total
of 930 master masons. This is our highest output for the past four (4)
years, despite having to suspend the conduct of degree works on
September 26, 2019. The works resumed after about two months with
the issuance of a comprehensive edict (Edict No. 328) to adequately
ensure full compliance of the craft with the enhanced Anti-Hazing Law of
2018.

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Grand Master’s Report – MW Agapito S. Suan, Jr.

2) Total gross membership (23,460). - Included in this figure are plural
members (3,663) and LML (4,572), which yields a population of 18,888
regular members paying annual dues. For this term, we have
permanently lost 233 brothers who dropped their working tools, 5 who
were expelled from the craft and 648 who demitted for various reasons.

3) Total Subordinate Lodges (412). - We have now passed beyond the 400
figure and recorded the highest number of subordinate lodges at 412 so
far, comprising of 396 regular lodges and 16 lodges under dispensation
and duly instituted during the term.

4) Total Constituted Lodges (8). - We have chartered and constituted
8 new lodges during the term, as follows:

1. Davao de Oro Masonic Lodge No. 443 May 15, 2019
2. Cabuyao City Masonic Lodge No. 442 May 20, 2019
3. Bantayang Bato Masonic Lodge No. 447 May 29, 2019
4. Deodoro C. Go Masonic Lodge No. 445 May 31, 2019
5. Pangarap Masonic Lodge No. 448 June 03, 2019
6. Calasiao Masonic Lodge No. 449 June 05, 2019
7. Moncada Masonic Lodge No. 446 June 06, 2019
8. Primera Republica Masonic Lodge No. 444 June 13, 2019

5) Approved Petitions for Lodge U.D. (14). - During the term, I have
actually approved the petitions of 14 Lodges U.D., and instituted 13
Lodges U.D., which included 3 lodges U.D. whose term was extended from
the previous year, while 1 lodge U.D. failed to be instituted for lack of
material time. The 14 Lodges U.D whose petitions have been approved
during the term are as follows:

1. Katarungan Masonic Lodge UD Makati City NCR-C
2. Morong Masonic Lodge UD Morong, Rizal RIV-Rizal
3. South Palawan Masonic Lodge UD Palawan NCR-A
4. Master Builder Masonic Lodge UD Manila NCR-C
5. Green City Masonic Lodge UD Tarlac RIII-Tarlac
6. Allium Cepa Masonic Lodge UD Bongabon RIII-N. E. South
7. Ang Bagong Bayan Masonic Lodge UD Llanera RIII-N. E. North
8. Carmona Sorteo Masonic Lodge UD Carmona RIV-Cavite (East)

9. Pres. Diosdado Macapagal Lodge UD Lubao RIII-Pampanga

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10. Masaraga Masonic Lodge UD Ligao City RV-B, Albay
11. MW Leon A. Bañez, Jr. Lodge UD Cagayan RII-Cagayan
12. WB Gil E. Fernando Lodge UD Marikina R-IV – Rizal
13. Filipinas Bondoc Peninsula Lodge U.D. RIV – Quezon & Marinduque
14. Commonwealth Masonic UD (institution deferred for next year)

It is my belief that for as long as petitions for new lodges comply with the
stringent mandatory requirements of our laws, the same should be
promptly given due course. If members from regular lodges feel the need
to affiliate with these new lodges, then so be it.

I am firmly in favor of lodges with manageable number of active members
as opposed to lodges with large membership. It has been proven that a
classroom-size lodge, numbering 20-30 members, will be more
conducive to masonic education and development.

B. FINANCIAL GROWTH

For the period ending March 31, 2020, our total revenues amounted to Php
34,362,641, while the expenses totaled to Php 23,505,289 and non-cash
expenses of Php 5,761,799, which resulted to an excess of receipts over
expenses of Php 5,095,553. Due to the existence of pandemic and
implementation of ECQ, we did not get the projected revenue for the
masonic year. A total of 84 lodges were not able to remit their dues and
fees totaling Php 887,169 due to the lockdown. Likewise, we had to cover a
deficit of Php 8,209,932 for payments to members benefits.

Overall, as of March 31, 2020, the Total Assets of The Most Worshipful
Grand Lodge stood at Php 317,138,884 showing an increase of Php
4,150,753 as compared to the balance of last year of Php 312,988,131.

The financial position of the Grand Lodge remains stable, with the full
report thereon rendered by the Grand Treasurer.

C. MASONIC RELIEF

1) Exempting Sick and Permanently Disabled Brethren from Payment
of Dues – We have an ageing population prone to sickness or disease. For
a very long time, it has been the problem of lodges on what to do with

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senior members who are unable to attend the lodge and pay their
membership dues on account of sickness or disability. Invariably, lodges
pay their per capita dues to the Grand Lodge if they are able to do so just
to maintain membership. Otherwise, lodges may be forced to report
them as SNPD which is not fair.

In Edict No. 325 dated June 12, 2019, we have exempted from the
payment of annual dues brethren of good standing who have been
afflicted with permanent disability and who are unable to personally pay
their obligation to the blue lodge and to the Grand Lodge. It does not
matter whether or not the family of the disabled brother is financially
able. The main consideration is that the sick brother cannot personally
take care of his obligation to the craft and this is a duty which is not the
burden of his family and should not be transmissible to them.

2) Allowing Funeral Rites to Deceased Brethren with SNPD Record -
Under Circular No. 10, I have specifically allowed masons with records
of SNPD/SNA to be given the privilege of masonic funeral services. At one
time or another, they have devoted a significant part of their life in service
to Masonry and thus rules of technicality should not prevail over the
request of their loved ones for a final masonic rite upon the departed
brother.

3) E-Cash Donation System - To facilitate the manner of giving and
receiving cash donations to the Grand Lodge, we entered into partnership
with GCash, a reputable system provider which now puts in place a
systematic, automated and efficient system of providing cash donation to
distressed brethren. Circular No. 14 dated September 4, 2019 was
issued to guide the brethren on the particulars of its use.

6) Scholarship Grant with a Private Foundation. - We have partnered
with Luis Co Chi Kiat Foundation, Inc. to administer a significantly funded
educational scholarship program for poor but deserving students from
qualified family of masons and outside beneficiaries. Under Circular No.
32, I have caused this program to be chaired by a permanent committee
composed of the incumbent Grand Master and members who shall serve
a term of four-years in order to ensure a sustainable scholarship
program. For this matter, I am sorry to report that our own masonic

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scholarship program has not been performing successfully owing to a
short term of one year for appointed committee members.

The running of a scholarship grant requires the service of administrators
who can oversee a normal four-year educational scholarship. I now
suggest that our standing scholarship committee be merged with the
above program for a better and sustainable management.

7) Death and Hospitalization Benefits – During my term, I have
consistently reported to the brethren that owing to the natural attrition
of our ageing population, our allocated collections from annual dues
intended for death and hospitalization benefits (P650.00 out of annual
dues of P1,725.00 per member) are suffering sustained deficits yearly. For
the combined yearly collections for financial relief, hospitalization and
death benefits of P12.2 million, we have already paid out about P20m for
the following benefits:

FRAP - P 6,510,000.00
Charity –Death/ - 1,010,000.00
- 340,000.00
Hospitalization
GGPM – Death & - 12,131,178.50
- P19,991,178.50
Hospitalization
Total

Clearly, we stand to incur deficit of about P8m or more yearly. As remedy,
I am proposing two actions for the immediate approval of the ANCOM:

a. Recover the deficit of P8m actually incurred by special assessment to
be collected for Masonic Year 2020-2021;

b. Increase the annual dues per member, from P1,725.00 to P2,500.00
effective the next Masonic Year or on MY 2021-2022. This increase is
badly needed and is critical for the success and greater benefit of
Philippine freemasonry.

I am therefore requesting that the above measures be urgently taken up
by ANCOM 2020.

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D. MASONIC CHARITIES AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

1) Tree Planting Activity – We have entered into a Memorandum of
Agreement with the Department of Environment and Natural
Resources (DENR) under its National Greening Program (NGP) which
assigned to the Grand Lodge of the Philippines (GLP) the protection
and maintenance of a staggering 106 hectare of unproductive
forestland located in Barangay San Mateo, Norzagaray, Bulacan.

Following this agreement as contained in Circular No. 31, we have
sponsored and participated in tree planting activities in said adopted
forest reserves during this term. In the succeeding terms, I suggest
that the jurisdiction should concentrate its effort in this massive area
in Bulacan as assigned to us by the DENR.

2) Environment Drive - Under Circular No. 3 dated May 15, 2019, we
have issued a total ban on smoking and vaping inside GLP premises,
except for a single designated area. And under Circular No. 12 dated
August 22, 2019, we have joined and supported the plastic free
campaign to further reduce waste and hazard to the environment.

3) Blood-letting Drive - The Grand Lodge entered into a partnership
with the Dugong Alay, Dugtong Buhay, Inc., a non-government
organization whose main objective is to organize a series of blood
donation for the needy. We have undertaken two successful blood-
letting drives in the Grand Lodge for the benefit of public hospitals as
contained in Circular Nos. 24 and 29.

4) Support to Public Education - In addition to established program of
lodges to help free public education, we have launched a project
entitled “One Million Notebook Project” in support of the Brigada
Eskwela Program of the Department of Education. Under Circular No.
8 dated June 18, 2019, we have caused the printing of 300,000
notebooks for distribution to beneficiaries in the Grade 1 and 2 levels
of public elementary schools nationwide. I am thankful that the
majority of the Masonic Districts and their constituent lodges have
subscribed to this project.

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5) Assistance to Earthquake Victims in Mindanao - When a series of
magnitude 6 earthquakes and damaging aftershocks jolted Mindanao
in October of 2019, we immediately called for the brethren to extend
their cable tow to aid and assist affected brothers and families. The
overwhelming support extended by the hearts and passion of the
brethren resulted in substantial relief and rehabilitation efforts in
support of brothers in the affected communities. In a span of days
after the call for support from the Grand Lodge, we were able to
successfully raise about half a million pesos in badly needed
donations. I thank everyone who sincerely helped, particularly all
DDGMs in Mindanao for their selfless charity work in times of crisis.

6) Support to 169 Children Patients of Masonic Charities for
Crippled Children Inc. - The MCCCI renewed medical support to less
privileged children with crippling condition and other biological
deformities, in partnership with medical institutions and allied
masonic organizations. Despite some administrative challenges,
MCCCI has fulfilled its mandate successfully. All in all, 169 children
patients were cared for this masonic year. Our collaborative efforts
and active local engagements paved the way for more brethren
endorsing patients and supporting our cause for the crippled children.

7) Support to Victims of Taal Volcano Eruption. - Earlier this year, a
massive eruption of Taal Volcano took place displacing thousands of
residents in the affected areas. Under Circular No. 25, the Grand
Lodge mobilized relief operation drives for distressed families with
donations gathered from brethren from across the jurisdiction,
enabling the GLP to dispense with cash and goods assistance to Taal
Volcano victims. For this purpose, the Grand Lodge procured much
needed N-95 facial masks from China and distributed the same, in
addition to other needed goods and materials, through our Disaster
Relief Committee headed by MW Voltaire Gazmin, PGM.

8) Assistance to COVID-19 Medical Front Liners – While the Grand
Lodge and the Blue Lodges were forced into inactivity during early
March of this year, this did not stop charity initiatives from the
brethren, including the direct participation of a good number of
masons in frontline services.

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As a result, masons serving in the medical profession, in the police and
military were exposed to risks. Among the first casualties were a
mason physician, who succumbed to the disease and his wife who
fortunately survived. The Grand Lodge therefore initiated the Dr. Greg
Macasaet Fund drive to help brethren and families who died in the line
of duty. In short order, this fund reached about P3 million for
distribution to the widows and families of the brothers who died or
who suffered serious injuries from the disease, as announced in
Circular No. 39.

In addition, through the Grand Lodge Committee on Disaster
Preparedness chaired by PGM Voltaire Gazmin, 4,000 face masks were
donated to the Philippine National Police for use by its PNP
frontliners. I also noted various masonic districts and lodges which
also held their relief and donation activities in their respective areas
which still continue until now.

Also, under Circular No 37, Masonic Districts and Lodges nationwide
launched the “Pamilya Mo, Sagot ng Kuyang Ko! Maraming Salamat
Frontliners!” This is a fund drive intended for non-mason front-liners.
So far, we have managed to raise adequate funds for this endeavor.

E. MASONIC EDUCATION AND PROFICIENCY

1) IMES - We have rationalized the schedule of classes and reduced the
required attendance period to make it more responsive and
convenient to the brethren. So far we have rolled out 27 classes out of
the 30 schedules this term, with 1,487 members earning IMES
Diploma.

2) Mandatory Lodge Education Program - Monthly masonic education
topics focused on specific paragraphs of the third degree obligation
have been devised and administered by the Senior Grand Lecturer
through the District Grand Lecturers.

3) Masonic Education in all Multi-District Conventions - The Senior
Grand Lecturer (SGL) and the concerned Junior Grand Lecturers
(JGLs) have been directed to hold relevant and informative masonic
lectures on every scheduled Multi-District Conventions. This is in

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addition to lectures of the DGLs given during the various District
Conventions.

Further details of the Masonic Education Program is discussed in the
report of VW Teodoro Kalaw IV, SGL.

F. CRAFT ADMINISTRATION

1) Compulsory presence of Grand Lodge Inspectors - To underscore
the need for lodges to be properly guided by the GLIs, we have issued
Edict No. 326 providing for the compulsory attendance of GLIs in
certain lodge meetings, such as degree works and election of officers,
and providing remedies in case of their absence.

2) Effective Management and Strict Control of Degree Conferral -
Despite a number of previously issued edicts dealing on the proper
treatment of petitioners and candidates, the Grand Lodge has been
confronted with a number of allegations of non-compliance with these
edicts. On September 26, 2019, we have issued Circular No. 18
temporarily suspending the conduct of degree works pending the
issuance of further preventive measures in the light of the enhanced
Anti-Hazing Law of 2018.

Subsequently, or on December 9, 2019, we have issued Edict No. 328
consolidating all previously issued edicts on the subject and providing
for more effective measures, penalties and sanctions to ensure a truly
masonic way in the treatment and admission of petitioners and
candidates.

3) Increase of Dispensation Fee - In Edict No. 329, we have increased
the fees for securing dispensation at P500.00 per availment, defined
the instances where dispensation is required, and strengthened the
procedures for their availment. In particular, we want the procedures
for securing dispensation for degree works to be strictly followed.

4) Restructuring of Large Masonic Districts. - Over the years, the
continuous growth of Philippine Freemasonry resulted to the
congregation of too many lodges under only one masonic district in
certain jurisdictions. Ideally, a masonic district should be composed

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of a maximum of 7-8 lodges in order to enable District Deputy Grand
Master (DDGM) to properly and efficiently supervise them.

There were Masonic Districts with 10 or more constituent lodges,
particularly MD NCR-G (13 lodges); MD RIII- BULACAN (14 lodges);
MD RIV – CAVITE EAST (13 lodges); MD RIV – CAVITE WEST (10
lodges); MD No. RIII Nueva Ecija North (13 lodges); MD No. RIII
Nueva Ecija South & Aurora (19 lodges). Under current edicts, the
DDGMs are mandated to be personally present in certain lodge events,
such as degree works and installation of lodge officers and I fail to see
how the DDGMs can personally and effectively attend to the needs of
so many lodges placed under his supervision.

I have therefore issued Edict No. 327 to rationalize these oversized
districts and create new districts, resulting in manageable number of
lodges in the affected Masonic Districts, as follows:

MD NCR-G (North Makati) 7 lodges
MD NCR-H (South Makati) 6 lodges
MD R-IV CAVITE CENTRAL 8 lodges
MD R-IV CAVITE EAST 8 lodges
MD R-IV CAVITE WEST 7 lodges
MD R-III BULACAN EAST 7 lodges
MD R-III BULACAN WEST 7 lodges
MD R-III NUEVA ECIJA NORTH 8 lodges
MD R-III NUEVA ECIJA SOUTH 8 lodges
MD R-III NUEVA ECIJA WEST 8 lodges
MD R-III NUEVA ECIJA EAST 8 lodges

5) Amendment of the Six-Stated Meeting Rule - Upon the
recommendation of the Committee on Works, Edict 276-C was issued
to allow 3 attendance credits for actual attendance in stated meetings
of foreign lodges as well as 3 attendance credits in stated meetings of
other local lodges. This will enable members who were unable to
attend their mother lodges for valid reasons such as temporary work
assignments in distant places, official travels abroad, etc., to comply
with the minimum attendance requirement in order to exercise the
right to vote.

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Said attendance credits were also extended to incumbent Grand Lodge
Officers in recognition of their inability to attend some of their lodge
meetings due to their duty with the Grand Lodge. The edict also
clarified that the six-stated meeting rule applies to brethren seeking
to exercise the right to object to a candidate under the scenario
provided for under Sections 23, 24, & 25, of Article VI, Part II of the
Constitution.

6) Requiring a Lodge Secretary to be a Past Master - In view of the
critical importance of a lodge Secretary to be fairly adept and
knowledgeable in masonic laws and procedures, lodge administration
and management, it is for the best interest of lodges to elect as a
Secretary a member who is already a Past Master and who is
presumed to have acquired valuable experience in lodge management.
Edict 330 was therefore issued to impose this condition, which shall
be applied beginning with the election of lodge officers for Masonic
Year 2020-2021.

7) Mandatory Award of Past Master’s Certificate and Past Master’s
Apron to the Immediate Past Master - For certain reasons, some
lodges make it an issue not to grant any recognition to the Worshipful
Master at the end of his term and thereby withhold the purchase of
Past Master’s Apron, Past Master’s Certificate, Past Master’s Ring, and
Past Master’s Jewel. This often results in unnecessary controversy and
breakdown of harmony within the Lodge. I have therefore issued
Circular No. 30 to clarify that the Apron and the Certificate are
mandatory entitlements of a qualified Past Master, while the Ring and
the Jewel are the awards subject to the discretion of the Lodge.

G. GRAND LODGE COMMUNICATIONS

1) Grand Lodge Website - We now have a fast, updated and reliable
website with relevant and highly informative contents which can be
easily accessed by the brethren. All official Grand Lodge
communications to lodges such as Edicts, Circulars, Memorandum
and other Grand Lodge information can be downloaded instantly
and serve as official communications for the purpose of the required
reading of Grand Lodge correspondence in all lodges.

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2) Text Blast System - The Grand Lodge has tapped the services of
Globe Telecoms enabling the GLP to send out instant text blast
messages simultaneously to all Grand Lodge Officers and to the
brethren, dealing on relevant news, alerts and information from the
Grand Master. On a personal level, this system may be also be used
to generate instant birthday and other relevant greetings to the
brethren.

3) Updated Facebook Account - With the hiring of a full-time IT staff,
the Grand Lodge was able to update and keep current its social
media presence amongst the brethren of the jurisdiction. Our
exclusive Facebook group was efficiently utilized to disseminate
news and relevant information from the Grand Lodge.

4) Cable Tow - This publication has lived up to its reputation as one
of the best in the international masonic community, disseminating
updated and worthy news and valuable educational articles to the
members in a timely manner. The recent edition already shows
updates on what the brethren are doing in relation to the corona
virus pandemic.

5) Platform for On-line Meetings - As a result of the ban on mass
gathering and the imposition of community quarantine, the Grand
Lodge has adopted the Zoom Video-Conferencing System to enable
remote communication among officers and members of the Grand
Lodge and the subordinate lodges. As of writing, this system was
used by Grand Lodge Officers to do virtual meetings. This
technology is now being set-up and fine-tuned to enable a possible
holding of a large-scale virtual meeting in the Grand Lodge level.

H. BUILDING AND FACILITIES MANAGEMENT

1) New Elevator - The Committee on Ways and Means rolled out
solicitations which enabled the Grand Lodge to purchase a new
elevator which was now installed at the Plaridel Masonic Temple,
replacing the old unit which has been out of order for some time.

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2) New Hostel and Cafeteria - Under a competitive bidding process, the
operation of the existing hostel and cafeteria was awarded to the most
responsive and competitive bidder/concessionaire. The Hostel and
Cafeteria facility is now fully upgraded and operated in a professional
manner. It is now being used extensively at the convenience of the
brethren and the general public, while generating steady income for
the Grand Lodge.

3) Restructuring of the Lease on 8 Commercial Spaces - The eight
commercial spaces along San Marcelino Street were repaired and fully
rented out to tenants at an increased monthly rate of P20,000 per unit
and under revised uniform terms advantageous to the Grand Lodge.
This presents additional steady income for the craft.

4) Installation of ATM Machine - In partnership with our banker,
Metrobank, we have installed one ATM machine for the convenience
of the brethren and Grand Lodge personnel. All Grand Lodge payrolls
can now be dispensed through this machine.

5) GLP Representation in Capitol Masonic Corporation - The Capitol
Masonic Temple complex is under the control and management of a
separate corporate entity over which the GLP holds about 40 percent
proprietary shares, through MCCCI. For this reason, the GLP should
be entitled to at least three board seats instead of the present one
board seat. Noting that the GLP has not been properly represented in
the management board, we have therefore taken measures to ensure
that at least three elected officers of the GLP who also serve as the
principal officers of MCCCI, namely: Grand Master, Deputy Grand
Master and Senior Grand Warden, will henceforth sit in the Corporate
Board and actively represent the interest of GLP.

6) Compliance of GLP with Business Permit Requirement - The
Grand Lodge has been operating in the City of Manila since early 1900s
but due to the outbreak of war in the 1940s and the massive fire which
engulfed the old Grand Lodge building and destroyed some vital
records, the Grand Lodge has been unable to provide required
documentations for yearly permit renewals and has been operating in
a de-facto capacity as far as the city hall is concerned. For so many
years, this has been a major issue with the city government. We have

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now managed to resolve the issue with City Hall and the GLP has
finally been issued a business permit, enabling it to pursue its masonic
and business activities with all legal niceties.

7) Registration of Grand Lodge Seal and Trademark - Through the
assistance of MW Santiago Gabionza, Jr., PGM, the Grand Lodge has
secured legal ownership of the Grand Lodge seal and trademark,
allowing proprietary use of the same, to the exclusion of all other
claimants.

8) Other Improvements - Several facilities in the Grand Lodge premises
were now visibly improved, notably:

a. Renovation of the Grand Master’s Suite
b. Repainting and beautification of GLP entrances, Aguinaldo Hall

including the side portions and back entrances of the GLP
building;
c. Landscaping of the open premises;
d. Construction of one designated smoking area
e. Installation of new sound system in the Abad Santos Hall;
f. Lightings of all PGM portraits;
g. New carpeting for the Office of the Grand Master;
h. Installation of motorized screen monitor;
i. Renovations of the PGMs hall with addition of new carpet,
curtains and wall paper and the purchase of new conference
tables and chairs;
j. Repainting of GLP Museum and installation of new aircon units;
k. Installation of floor tiles, 2 aircon units, door panels, toilet bowl
and repainting of ceiling of the 4th floor;
l. Construction of new kitchen;
m. Provision of additional 17 parking spaces;
n. Construction of designated garbage area;
o. Construction of pathway on the south side of GLP building;
p. Provision of coffee lounge in the 2nd floor;
q. Restoration of GLP Chapel;
r. Installation of outdoor sound system.

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All the above improvements were made possible at the least cost to
the GLP and financed largely by contribution of the brethren and other
donors.

I. NEW GRAND LODGE PUBLICATIONS

1) Issuance of New Masonic Passports – In order to conveniently
record attendance in foreign and local lodges for purposes of
crediting attendance under the Six-Stated Meeting Rule, I have
caused the printing and issuance of new Masonic Passport to be used
by the brethren in officially documenting such attendance.

2) Publication of Updated Masonic Law Book, 2019 Edition – Under
Edicts 295 and 295-A (MW Tolentino), one of the objectives for the
holding of the Special Communication on December 19, 2017 is to
“integrate with our existing Masonic Law Book all Edicts approved
beginning with the term of MW Gabionza in order to update the
Constitution…. xxx.” A Special Committee was thus created by MW
Tolentino to undertake such review and integration of the
Constitution.

Pursuant thereto, an updated Constitution and Masonic Law Book,
2019 Edition has already been printed during the term for use in the
jurisdiction. The amendments introduced by Edicts issued after
Masonic Year 2012 have been incorporated into the affected
provisions of the Constitution under Part I and II thereof. This new
Edition included only subsisting and valid Edicts. It is intended to be
a single reference handbook such that aside from valid edicts and
other relevant masonic writings lifted from the previous edition, the
new edition also contains texts of approved manuals on various
installation ceremonies used in this jurisdiction.

Naturally, the Edicts I have issued for the term are not included. But
if they are eventually approved by the ANCOM, they would repeal
some of the standing Edicts, particularly on various edicts dealing
with the handling and treatment of petitioners under Edicts 245
(MW Lim Lo Suy) and Edict 245-A (MW Momo), since all such
provisions were consolidated in the new Edict 328.

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Admittedly, due to its comprehensive contents, the Masonic Law
Book is quite bulky. However, to address the need for a handy
material, there is also a plan to print an abridged version containing
only the provisions of the Constitution under Part I, II and III thereof.

3) Reprinting of the 2015 Blue Monitor – The official monitor as
previously approved was reprinted. Nothing was changed in the
contents, except the addition of Summary Guide and Annotations
based on the recommendations of the IMES Faculty for Masonic
Liturgy for the uniform instructions on some vital floor works.

J. MASONIC CONVENTIONS AND OTHER OFFICIAL VISITS

I have made it a personal policy to attend all multi-district conventions
and all other masonic ceremonies in the entire jurisdiction so as to
enable the brethren to directly communicate their updates and
concerns with the Grand Master and other Grand Lodge Officers and
vice versa. At the same time, this has enabled me as the Grand Master
to observe first-hand the workings of Masonry in each locality and to
personally assess the state of affairs of masonry in the areas visited.

I have also travelled to foreign jurisdictions to represent the Grand
Lodge of the Philippines and also to learn some best practices of the
more progressive Grand Lodges which we can adopt in this
jurisdiction.

A rundown of these official visits is listed below:

1. District Turnovers

a. MD RIX Misamis Oriental & Cagayan De Oro – May 3, 2019
b. MD NCR - B – May 4, 2019
c. MD NCR-G – May 6, 2019
d. MD RIII-Nueva Ecija (South and Aurora) – May 8, 2019
e. MD RIII-Bataan – May 10, 2019
f. MD RIV- Cavite (East & West) – May 11, 2011
g. MD RIII-Pangasinan – May 18, 2019
h. MD NCR-C – May 23, 2019

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2. District Conventions

a. MD RI & CAR (Ilocos Sur, Norte and Abra) – August 3, 2019
b. MD NCR B – August 10, 2019

3. Multi-District Conventions

a. NORTHERN LUZON
Host: MD RII-Nueva Vizcaya (North)
September 13-14, 2019

b. SOUTHERN MINDANAO
Host: MD RXI-Davao del Sur & Davao City
September 20-22, 2019

c. CENTRAL LUZON
Host: MD RIII-Pampanga
September 27-28, 2019

d. WESTERN MINDANO
Host: MD RX & ARMM Lanao Provinces
October 4-5, 2019

e. SOUTHERN LUZON
Host: MD RIV-Cavite West
Date: October 12, 2019

f. NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION
Host: MD NCR-B
Date: November 9, 2019

g. NORTHERN MINDANAO
Host: RX-Bukidnon (South)
November 15-16, 2019

h. VISAYAS REGIONAL CONVENTION
Host: RXVIII-Negros Island Region
Date: November 22-23, 2019

i. MINDANAO REGIONAL CONVENTION
Host: RXI-Davao Del Norte & Oriental
Date: January 31-February 1, 2020

j. OVERSEAS
Host: Overseas Marianas Island
Date: February 21-23, 2020

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4. Masonic Ceremonies

a. Independence Day Celebration & Wreath Laying Ceremony
at the Rizal Monument & Grand Lodge of the Philippines
June 12, 2019

b. Birth Anniversary Dr. Jose P. Rizal
June 19, 2019

c. Charter Day & Past Masters Night, Dr. Sun Yat Sen Mem.
Lodge No. 398
June 12, 2019

d. Centennial Anniversary Mt. Mainam Masonic Lodge No. 49
June 19, 2019

e. Charter Anniversary Majalar Masonic Lodge No. 184
July 13, 2019

f. Birth Anniversary Apolinario Mabini
July 23, 2019

g. Past Masters Night Dr. Jose P. Rizal Masonic Lodge No. 270
August 25, 2019

h. Birth Anniversary Marcelo H. Del Pilar
August 30, 2019

i. Centennial Anniversary & Unveiling of Centennial Marker
Cabanatuan Masonic Lodge No. 53
September 7, 2019

j. Charter Anniversary Seven Cardinal Virtues Masonic
Lodge No. 390
September 25, 2019

k. Centennial Anniversary Pangasinan Masonic Lodge No. 56
October 10, 2019

l. Charter Anniversary Jacobo Zobel Memorial Lodge No. 202
November 18, 2019

5. Grand Lodge Affairs

a. 107th Grand Lodge Anniversary & Testimonial Dinner
to the Past Grand Masters / Honoring Masons in the
Government Service
December 19, 2019 at the Coconut Palace

b. Christmas gift giving to the indigents at the GLP
December 19, 2019

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2. Foreign Conventions

a. 145th Imperial Session of Shriners International in Nashville,
Tennessee, June 30-July 4, 2019

b. Guest of Honor and Speaker Installation of Officers Jose Rizal Lodge
No. 1172, New York, July 6, 2019

c. Quarterly Communication, Grand Lodge of Victoria
Melbourne, Australia, September 16-19, 2019

d. 107th Annual Communication, Grand Lodge of California
California, October 18-20, 2019

e. 66th Annual Communication, Grand Lodge of China
Taipei, Oct 24-26, 2019

7. Cornerstone Laying

a. Villaverde Masonic Lodge No. 206, Nueva Vizcaya
August 8, 2019

b. Capitol Masonic Temple, Quezon City
August 31, 2019

c. Calasiao Masonic Lodge No. 449, Pangasinan
October 10, 2019

d. San Leonardo Masonic Lodge No. 386, Nueva Ecija
February 26, 2020

e. Cabuyao City Masonic Lodge No. 442, Laguna
March 3, 2020

8. Lodge Temple Dedication

a. Zamboaga Masonic Lodge No. 310, Zamboanga City
June 24, 2019

b. Jose Abad Santos Masonic Lodge No. 333, Mabalacat Pampanga
August 10, 2019

c. Leonardo Panares Masonic Lodge No. 220, Cagayan De Oro City
August 28, 2019

d. Negrense Masonic Lodge No. 200, Ernesto Salas
Masonic Lodge No. 280 and F. Demonteverde Masonic
Lodge No. 320, Bacolod City
October 8, 2019

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e. San Jose Del Monte Masonic Lodge No. 357, SJDM, Bulacan
October 11, 2019

f. Tolomeo C. Galarrita Masonic Lodge No. 242, Valencia City,
Bukidnon
November 15, 2019

g. Gen. Malvar Masonic Lodge No. 427, Nueva Ecija
January 18, 2020

h. Dalusan-MW Ko Masonic Lodge No. 210, Bacolod City
January 23, 2020

i. San Miguel de Mayumo Masonic Lodge No. 412,
San Miguel, Bulacan
March 11, 2020

Having thus extensively travelled, I can say with honesty and authority
that the commitment and passion of Filipino masons to the craft remain
steadfast and strong. From various conventions I have attended, I observed
that the rituals are practiced with uniformity albeit with varying degrees of
skill. It is just unfortunate that we were unable to launch the planned ritual
skills competition for lack of material time because that would have established
a fair measurement on the degree of expertise of the brethren from different
lodges of the country.

Ritually speaking, I have personally observed that our brethren would
be at par, if not better, than our counterparts from foreign jurisdictions.

II. ADJUDICATION

At the beginning of the term, there were several unresolved disputes and
grievances pending before the Grand Lodge and carried over from previous
years. As a matter of policy, and if the parties were amenable, the Office of the
Grand Master attempted to harmonize or amicably settle on-going disputes.
Cases that cannot be summarily settled were then submitted to the Committee
on Preliminary Investigation for proper disposition.

Pursuant to the judicial power vested upon the Grand Master in between
ANCOM, I have caused the approval of the following resolution of cases
submitted for adjudication before the Grand Lodge:

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A. Cases Directly Recognized by the Grand Master:

1. Kasilawan Lodge No. 77 – I have ordered the suspension from
office, as well as suspension from the rights of Masonry until the next
ANCOM, the Worshipful Master, Senior Warder and acting Junior
Warden of the Lodge for willful and deliberate violation of masonic
laws regarding the election of a petitioner.

2. Okinawa Masonic Lodge No. 118 - Following the reversal of the
expulsion of RW Napoleon Sison by the Grand Lodge of Japan, I have
caused his restoration into active status as a regular member of the
Grand Lodge of the Philippines.

3. Molave Masonic Lodge No. 261 – Having been found guilty by a court
of the land of the crime of adultery, I have directed that a member of
this lodge be expelled from the craft for gross immorality.

4. High Twelve Masonic Lodge No. 82 - I have suspended a member of
this Lodge for two years for violation of Edict No. 245-A (MW Momo)
by committing prohibited practices during a first degree conferral.

5. Sarangani Masonic Lodge No. 50 – I have approved the standing
recommendation of the Trial Commission constituted during the
incumbency of MW Momo to expel a Past Master of this Lodge for
gross violation of Edict No. 82 (MW Puno) and Edict No. 82-E (MW
Rentoy).

6. Macario Ramos Masonic Lodge No. 355 – Approving the
recommendation of the Preliminary Investigation Committee for
direct action on this case, I have caused the expulsion of a member of
this Lodge for unmasonic conduct / gross immorality committed upon
the wife of a master mason.

B. Cases Resolved by the Preliminary Investigation Committee -
Tasked with the duty to determine the existence of probable cause on
unmasonic conduct cases, violation of laws and other disputes, this Committee
has acted on 26 cases, dismissed 20 cases for lack of probable cause and
recommended 6 cases for trial.

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This Committee has proven to be very vital in the administration of
masonic justice. Invariably, disputes arise due to personal quarrels and
animosities among the parties which do not actually involve masonic violations,
and have to be dismissed for absence of probable cause to merit a masonic trial.
In some instances, the complaints were dismissed due to amicable settlements
or withdrawal of the complaint fostered by the Committee among the litigants.

The Chairman, VW Vicente Montes and members of this committee who
are seasoned lawyers and adept at Masonic Laws should be commended for
their fast, active and prolific labor for the craft. The list of cases disposed of is
hereto attached.

C. Cases Decided by the Masonic Trial Commission – The duly
constituted Trial Commission handled the adjudication of cases referred to it
by the Preliminary Investigation Committee as contained in the list of cases,
also attached in this report.

D. Appealed Cases Recommended by the Grievance Committee - I
have approved the report of the Grievance Committee chaired by MW Santiago
T. Gabionza, Jr., PGM, on the dispositions of the following appealed cases:

1. Appeal of Noel G. Cacdac GLP-GC-001-2019
of Macario R. Ramos Masonic Lodge No. 355
2. Appeal of Brother Orlando E. Astrero GLP-GC-002-2019
of Isagani Lodge No. 96
3. Appeal of Bro. William G. Narvaez GLP-GC-003-2019
of Molino Lodge Trial Commission
4. Appeal of Worshipful Master Christian Ho GLP-GC-004-2019

of Samboangan Masonic Lodge No. 310
in re Bro. Rusvan P. Tan
5. Appeal of Bro. Angelo A. de Leon GLP-GC-005-2019
of Cupang Masonic Lodge No. 295
in re Bro. Manuelito Eugenio

III. LEGISLATION

A. EDICTS ISSUED – A total of eight (8) Edicts complementary to the
Constitution were issued during the term as follows:

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EDICT NO. 325 - LIST OF EDICTS
June 12, 2019 MY 2019-2020 – MW SUAN
EDICT NO. 326 - EXEMPTING MASTER MASONS WHO ARE
June 17, 2019 PERMANENTY DISABLED AND IN A STATE OF
EDICT NO. 327 - DISTRESS DUE TO INJURY OR ILLNESS FROM
Dec. 6, 2019 PAYMENT OF THEIR ANNUAL DUES AND FOR OTHER
MATTERS
EDICT NO. 328 - CLARIFYING WHEN ATTENDANCE OF GRAND
Dec. 9, 2019 LODGE INSPECTORS IS COMPULSORY DURING
EDICT NO. 329 - LODGE MEETINGS AND PROVIDING REMEDIES TO
Jan. 15, 2020 ADDRESS ABSENCE
EDICT NO. 276-C - CREATION OF NEW MASONIC DISTRICTS THROUGH
Jan. 16, 2020 THE DIVISION OF MASONIC DISTRICT NCR-G IN THE
EDICT NO. 233-T - NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION, AND THE DIVISION OF
Feb. 18, 2020 EXISTING MASONIC DISTRICTS IN THE PROVINCES
OF CAVITE, BULACAN, NUEVA ECIJA AND AURORA
AND APPORTIONMENT OF THEIR RESPECTIVE
CONSTITUENT LODGES
CONSOLIDATED RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS IN THE
ADMISSION AND TREATMENT OF PETITIONERS AND
IN THE CONFERRAL OF THE THREE DEGREES OF
MASONRY, PROVIDING DISCIPLINARY SANCTIONS
AND PENALTIES, AND FOR RELATED MATTERS
DISPENSATION FEES

FURTHER AMENDING THE SIX STATED MEETING
RULE TO PROVIDE CREDITS FOR ATTENDANCE
OUTSIDE THE LODGE AND FOR OTHER MATTERS
RESTORING CERTAIN BRETHREN TO MEMBERSHIP
IN THE GRAND LODGE OF FREE & ACCEPTED
MASONS OF THE PHILIPPINES

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EDICT NO. 330 - REQUIRING ALL ELECTED LODGE SECRETARY TO
March 9, 2020 BE A PAST MASTER

EDICT NO. 331 - RATIONALIZING MASONIC EDUCATIONAL
May 8, 2020 REQUIREMENTS FOR LODGE AND GRAND LODGE
LEADERSHIP AND FACILITATING DOCTRINAL AND
INSTRUCTIONAL CONSISTENCY DURING EACH
MASONIC TERM

B. CIRCULARS ISSUED – The complete list of circulars to explain and
inform the brethren on certain facts or issues are as follows:

LIST OF CIRCULARS
MY 2019-2020 – MW SUAN

CIRCULAR NO. 1 - ELECTED and APPOINTED OFFICERS of the MOST
May 10, 2019 WORSHIPFUL GRAND LODGE of FREE and
ACCEPTED MASONS of the PHILIPPINES

CIRCULAR NO. 1-A- APPOINTMENT OF CHIEF OF STAFF
June 3, 2019

CIRCULAR NO. 1-B - APPOINTMENT OF JUNIOR GRAND LECTURER
July 15, 2019 FOR CAVITE MASONIC DISTRICTS

CIRCULAR NO. 2 - MATTERS APPROVED DURING THE 103rd ANCOM –
August 20, 2019 CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, APRIL 25 – 27, 2019

CIRCULAR NO. 3 - PROHIBITION AGAINST SMOKING/VAPING INSIDE
May 15, 2019 THE GLP PREMISES/DESIGNATED AREAS

CIRCULAR NO. 4 - INVITATION TO BID GLP/HOSTEL AND CANTEEN
May 15, 2019 REFLECTIONS FROM PASSAGES OF SCRIPTURE
CIRCULAR NO. 5 - FOR MAY 2019
May 20, 2019

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CIRCULAR NO. 6 - CHAIRMEN, VICE-CHAIRMEN AND MEMBERS OF
May 22, 2019 STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES OF THE
GRAND LODGE

CIRCULAR NO. 6-A - CHAIRMEN, VICE-CHAIRMEN AND MEMBERS OF
June 27, 2019 STANDING AND SPECIAL COMMITTEES OF THE
GRAND LODGE

CIRCULAR NO. 6-B - SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON THE PUBLICATION OF THE

July 15, 2019 UPDATED MASONIC LAW BOOK

CIRCULAR NO. 7 - INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION
May 28, 2019

CIRCULAR NO. 8 - ONE MILLION NOTEBOOKS PROJECT OF THE GLP
June 18, 2019 FOR THE BRIGADA ESKWELA PROGRAM OF THE
DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION (DEP-ED)

CIRCULAR NO. 9 - APPOINTMENT OF ALL SECRETARIES OF MASONIC
June 18, 2019 DISTRICTS AS NEWS CORRESPONDENTS FOR THE
CABLETOW

CIRCULAR NO. 10 - MASONIC FUNERAL SERVICES FOR MASONS WITH
July 15, 2019 SNPD/SNA STATUS

CIRCULAR NO. 11 - ORDER OF SUSPENSION OF BRETHREN FOR
August 13, 2019 VIOLATION OF EDICT 245-A – MW MOMO

CIRCULAR NO. 12 - PLASTIC FREE CAMPAIGN
August 22, 2019

CIRCULAR NO. 13 - ORDER OF RESTORATION OF
Sept. 2, 2019 RW NAPOLEON A. SISON

CIRCULAR NO. 14 - USE OF GCASH AS AN ALTERNATIVE AND FASTER
Sept. 4, 201 FORM OF DONATION

CIRCULAR NO. 15 - RITUAL COMPETITION - LODGE OPENING &

Sept 12, 2019 TRIBUTE TO THE FLAG

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CIRCULAR NO. 16 - RAFFLE DRAW FOR THE 104th ANNUAL
Sept 16, 2019 COMMUNICATION

CIRCULAR NO. 17 - ORDER OF EXPULSION (WB Von Carlo G. Farinas)
Sept 19, 2019

CIRCULAR NO. 18 - SUSPENSION OF DEGREE WORKS OF ALL
Sept 26, 2019 SUBORDINATE LODGES AND APPENDANT BODIES

CIRCULAR NO. 19 - APPOINTMENT OF A BUILDING ADMINISTRATOR
Oct 14, 2019 FOR THE CAPITOL MASONIC TEMPLE

CIRCULAR NO. 19-A- NEW RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE CAPITOL
Dec 2, 2019 MASONIC TEMPLE

CIRCULAR NO. 20 - ORDER OF SUSPENSION (WB Joseph Li)
Oct 21, 2019

CIRCULAR NO. 21 - APPOINTMENT OF DISTRICT DEPUTY GRAND
Dec 16, 2019 MASTERS AND DISTRICT GRAND LECTURERS TO
NEWLY CREATED MASONIC DISTRICTS AND
RE-ASSIGNMENTS OF INCUMBENT DDGMs AND DGLs
PURSUANT TO EDICT NO. 327 (MW SUAN)

CIRCULAR NO. 22 - GRAND LODGE AWARDS FOR MY 2019-2020
Jan 3, 2020

CIRCULAR NO. 23 - PROFICIENCY REQUIREMENTS ON ELECTIVE

Jan 3, 2020 OFFICERS OF THE LODGE PRIOR TO INSTALLATION

CIRCULAR NO. 24 - BLOOD LETTING DRIVE ON JANUARY 12, 2020
Jan 4, 2020 AT THE GLP

CIRCULAR NO. 25 - RELIEF DRIVE FOR DISTRESSED VICTIMS OF THE
Jan 16, 2020 TAAL VOLCANO ERUPTION

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CIRCULAR NO. 26 - MOBILIZING THE ‘COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT
Jan 21, 2020 AND DISASTER PREPAREDNESS’ FOR THE
MANAGEMENT OF GLP-LED ASSISTANCE TO THE
CIRCULAR NO. 27 - VICTIMS OF THE TAAL VOLCANO ERUPTION AND
Jan 28, 2020 FOR OTHER MATTERS
CIRCULAR NO. 28 -
Jan 28, 2020 DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF 2019 ANNUAL
CIRCULAR NO. 29 - REPORT, LODGE REPORTS FROM JANUARY TO
Jan 29, 2020 DECEMBER 2019, ELECTION RETURNS AND
CIRCULAR NO. 30 - REMITTANCE OF 2020 ANNUAL DUES
Feb 21, 2020
CIRCULAR NO. 31- DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF 2019 ANNUAL
Feb 21, 2020 REPORT, LODGE REPORTS FROM JANUARY TO
DECEMBER 2019, ELECTION RETURNS AND
CIRCULAR NO. 32- REMITTANCE OF 2020 ANNUAL DUES
Feb 24, 2020
BLOOD LETTING DRIVE PART II ON MARCH 29, 2020
CIRCULAR NO. 33 - AT THE GLP
March 4, 2020
CLARIFICATION IN THE GRANT OF PAST MASTER’S
APRON, PAST MASTER’S CERTIFICATE, PAST
MASTER’S RING AND PAST MASTER’S JEWEL

CIRCULARIZING THE MEMORANDUM OF
AGREEMENT(MOA) BETWEEN THE GRAND LODGE
OF THE PHILIPPINES AND THE DEPARTMENT
OFENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
(DENR) AND BRIQUETTOR ASSOCIATION OF THE
PHILIPPINES

DISSEMINATING THE DETAILS OF THE
SCHOLARSHIP GRANT FROM ‘LUIS CO CHI KIAT
FOUNDATION INC.’ AND APPOINTING THE
PERMANENT MEMBERS OF THE SCHOLARSHIP
COMMITTEE FOR THIS PURPOSE

USE OF UNAUTHORIZED APRON AND JEWEL

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CIRCULAR NO. 34 - URGENT PROTOCOL ON CORONA VIRUS (COVID 19)
March 9, 2020

CIRCULAR NO. 35 - SUSPENSION OF STATED MEETINGS OF LODGES,
March 13, 2020 CANCELLATION OF ALL MASONIC EVENTS IN THE
NATIONAL CAPITAL REGION FOR THE PERIOD
MARCH 15, 2020 TO APRIL 14, 2020 AND FOR OTHER
MATTERS

CIRCULAR NO. 36 - GENERAL SUSPENSION OF ALL MASONIC
March 17, 2020 ACTIVITIES NATIONWIDE AND TEMPORARY
CANCELLATION OF ANCOM 2020

CIRCULAR NO. 37 - GLP NCR MEDICAL FRONTLINER ASSISTANCE
April 7, 2020 INITIATIVE: IMPLEMENTING GUIDELINES

CIRCULAR NO. 38 - REITERATION OF THE GENERAL SUSPENSION OF
April 13, 2020 ALL MASONIC ACTIVITIES NATIONWIDE

CIRCULAR NO. 39 - IMPLEMENTING THE WB GREG MACASAET SPECIAL
May 12, 2020 MEMORIAL FUND

IV. UNFINISHED BUSINESS

There were two major disruptions early in the year - the Taal Volcano
Eruption in January of 2020, and the massive impact of the Corona Virus
Pandemic. The COVID-19 threat had been felt in February and became full
blown health crisis in March which has lingered on until now. Since the start of
the year, the normal operations of the Grand Lodge were adversely affected by
these events.

These resulted in a number of unfinished actions or programs envisioned
to sustain the progress of Philippine Freemasonry. I would like to record the
more important proposals for the consideration of the future leadership and by
the ANCOM as follows:

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1. Commercial Development of certain GLP Properties
under a Joint Venture Agreement with Private
Developers

On my sojourn in foreign jurisdictions, I have noted that old and well-
established Grand Lodges in Australia and in the United States allowed
their land assets to be converted to commercial developments. These
conversions generated steady and profitable cash flows on rentals yearly
such that these Grand Lodges do not rely on per capita contributions of
members to finance their operations. I believe that this is worthy of
emulation.

We have identified certain properties in the GLP which can be converted
to generate potential sources of income under a joint-venture agreement
with private developers and with no money out from the Grand Lodge.
The concept for joint venture developments was presented to the Board
for General Purposes and to the Corporate Board which approved the
same in principle, subject to approval of more detailed plans and subject
to the consensus of the brethren assembled in the ANCOM.

I therefore identify and submit the following proposals for joint venture
developments for consideration and approval of the ANCOM:

a. Proposed Joint Venture to construct a high rise
commercial building in the Grand Lodge

The Grand Lodge premises measuring about 2,490 sq. m. and
fronting San Marcelino Street can be converted for development without
affecting the operations of the Plaridel Masonic Temple. An initial
proposal shows that two high-rise buildings can be constructed in this
portion of the property. When finished, it is estimated that the Grand
Lodge stands to gain developed building spaces worth a billion pesos,
more or less.

b. Joint Venture to Develop the Masonic Cemetery

A modern columbarium and interment facility can be constructed
in the Masonic Cemetery located in the Manila North Cemetery. A

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developer has already expressed interest to pursue this project. For a
long time already, the GLP has not been able to maintain effective use and
control of this property with the result that the Masonic Cemetery is
prone to unauthorized use and conversion. A modern columbarium
owned by the GLP but run professionally by a joint venture partner will
be most ideal for the craft.

c. Development of a Donated Makati Property

Eight years ago, Brother Prime Minister Cesar Virata has donated a
290 square meter lot to the GLP. It is located in Pasay City, but quite
accessible as it is near EDSA. This was intended to house a masonic lodge
for use by Wenceslao Trinidad Masonic Lodge No. 365 and other lodges
in Makati City. At present, the area is occupied by illegal settlers. I have
now caused the titling process of this property in favor of the GLP,
beginning with the payment of all needed taxes to the government. Once
done, the GLP can initiate proceedings to evict the illegal occupants. In
due time, a building could be constructed there under the same JV scheme
which can accommodate a masonic lodge and valuable commercial
spaces.

2. Pending Edicts

The following proposed edicts dealing on election matters were in
the works but not finalized due to suspension of masonic activities. I
firmly believe that these edicts will be helpful in attaining further
improvement of our election laws, and they are as follows:

a. Edict Creating the Electoral Monitoring Committee - Our
Constitution and Edicts defined electioneering practices in the
nomination, selection and election of candidates for the position of
JGW but there is no masonic body specifically charged to receive,
investigate and evaluate all reported electioneering practices in the
District, Multi-District and ANCOM levels.

Hence, no certified reports or decisions on electoral violations are
being submitted to the Past Grand Masters to aid them with their
duty to make a preliminary determination of the fitness or

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disqualification of candidates referred to it by various Multi-
District Conventions for the position Junior Grand Warden.

This edict intends to remedy this situation.

b. Edict to Amend Section 21 of Edict 268-F (MW Momo) – This
provision of existing edict provides that during the voting in the
Multi-District Conventions for the nomination of official candidates
for Junior Grand Warden, qualified voters shall vote for only one
nominee despite being entitled to two (2) or three (3) candidates
as official nominees of the Multi-District in the ANCOM level.

This situation unduly favors candidates of Masonic Districts with
larger number of constituent lodges and larger number of
delegates who can invariably outnumber the votes of Masonic
Districts with lesser component lodges. This proposed edict seeks
to level the playing field by prohibiting the casting of votes for only
one candidate if the Multi-District Convention is entitled to two or
three nominees, as the case may be.

3. Memorandum of Agreement with the United Grand
Lodge of Victoria, Australia

Continuing the commitment for closer cooperation between the
GLP and the Grand Lodge of Victoria which was started during the term of
MW Gazmin, I led the official GLP delegation on a visit to Melbourne,
Australia on September 16-19, 2019 to finalize the agreement. The MOA
signed by us was supposed to be taken up before the Quarterly
Communication in Victoria last March with the visit of the Philippine
delegation on that event. Conversely, the agreement signed by the Grand
Master of Victoria would have been presented by the Australian delegation
during our April 2020 ANCOM. Both events were cancelled due to the
COVID-19 pandemic.

I therefore request that this Agreement be recognized as a valid
standing commitment by the two Grand Lodges and implemented by
succeeding GLP administration and duly approved by the subsequent
ANCOM.

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4. Increase in Annual Dues

The present annual dues of individual masons payable to the Grand
Lodge of the Philippines at the rate of P1,725.00 has not been increased
for at least fifteen (15) years. Out of this sum, only P450.00 is allocated as
the per capita contribution which has remained unchanged for about 20
years. The rest is allocated for various approved programs. I am not
looking to increase the per capita contribution due to the Grand Lodge but
I propose that the annual dues be adjusted to P2,500.00, largely to support
the increasing cost of our various charity programs and other important
works.

The proposed new rate of annual dues should then be allocated as
follows:
OLD NEW

ALLOCATION (P1,7250.00) (P2,500.00)

Per Capita Assessment 450.00 550.00
Charity Fund 100.00 150.00
Youth Fund 120.00 120.00

MCCI Fund 75.00 75.00
Building Fund 10.00 50.00
Cable Tow Fund 130.00 180.00
Grand Guild of Past Masters 350.00 600.00
Library & Museum 20.00 50.00
Youth Project 20.00 25.00
Calamity Fund 100.00 150.00
IMES 150.00 150.00
FRAP 200.00 400.00

Under the Constitution, any increase of dues approved by the
ANCOM will only take effect after a year following its approval, such that
I urge that this be duly taken up during the upcoming ANCOM to avoid
further delays.

5. Accreditation of the Grand Lodge of the Philippines as an
Accredited Donee Institution with the Bureau of
Internal Revenue (BIR)

One of the most important attributes of our institution is its
philanthropic character. Under the name of the GLP or under its
direction and control, the Grand Lodge has been doing consistent charity

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works yearly and without fail. We are enabled to do this out of the
contributions and donations from members and from outside parties.

In order to be able to tap into the various corporate social
responsibility programs of private corporations, the GLP needs to be
recognized as an accredited donee institution with the government thru
the BIR. Under the law, only donations to accredited donee institutions
can be recognized as valid deductions for tax purposes. Once the GLP
is recognized as such, private corporate donors may be encouraged to
channel some of their charity contributions to us.

This is an arduous and lengthy process which has been initiated
during this term and must be continued by the succeeding
administrations until the needed certification is obtained.
I thank the brethren of the entire jurisdiction for their wholehearted
support and cooperation and for truly embracing the theme of “Charity and
Humility - Foundations of a True Mason” for this masonic year.
It is both a privilege and an honor to have been of service to the Most
Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free & Accepted Masons of the Philippines.

Fraternally yours,

MW AGAPITO S. SUAN, JR.
Grand Master