He started it all in Cebu City. The busy city life intersects with the enduring customs of faith and community, there is a man who has dedicated himself to connecting these realms. Father Tito Soquiño, OSA, a priest is known for his kindness, commitment and unwavering dedication to serving those in need. At present, he is the Director of Libraries and Regent of Grade School Department at Colegio San Agustin in Biñan, Laguna.

A MISSION THAT GOES BEYOND THE CHURCH ALTAR

Fr. Tito Soquiño isn't your ordinary priest. While he fulfills his duties within the church, his work extends beyond its confines. He has been actively involved in initiatives that focus on supporting underprivileged communities, in Cebu for many years. His efforts go beyond offering assistance; focusing on empowering individuals by equipping them with the resources and opportunities to enhance their lives in a sustainable manner.

When he was invited by a team of scuba divers to be their adviser, Fr. Tito, who is by heart a nature lover, started his journey rallying the group’s advocacy of marine conservation and protection of coral reefs. They called themselves as the “SEA KNIGHTS” or Knight Stewards of the Sea. When the group become active in their advocacy to stop dynamite fishing in Talisay Cebu, they also started to clean the underwater sanctuary of coral reefs which house a bounty of fishes in that area. 

Not an easy task though. Awareness campaign for the local fisherman to stop their dynamite fishing has been tough. Seeing the conflict that it would create, the city government came up with a solution that intrusion in that marine sanctuary is prohibited to the fishermen. It should be protected. Hence, the Sea Knights were given a mandate to apprehend illegal fishermen and they can bring the perpetrator to the police.

Fr. Tito’s deep connection and love for our nature pushed him to think of unique approach to educate these fishermen to balance their livelihood. Catch fish while protecting the environment of these creatures. 

THE INCEPTION OF THE "STREETS, TO SCHOOLS" INITIATIVE

One of Fr. Tito’s undertakings is the "Streets to Schools" initiative, which seeks to positively impact the lives of underprivileged children through education. This initiative originated from Fr. Tito’s interactions with children living on the streets often engaged in begging or working in conditions. Fr. Tito looked past their struggles. Envisioned a future where these children could break free from poverty cycle through education. With the assistance of volunteers and local supporters "Streets, to Schools" offers sessions, meals and basic healthcare services to street children.

Fr. Tito and his staff labor to see that these children not only get an education but the moral & spiritual under-girding they require in order to make it through their very difficult surroundings. A Shepherd in Times of Crisis The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented conditions for communities worldwide, Cebu included.

The virus spread, many lost their jobs and the poor communities became even more desperate. Fr. Tito was quick to the scene once more and mounted relief drives, gave food packs away, extended financial assistance where it could no longer be sourced. It was the center of hope when people could come not only for some material help, but also emotional support and strength needed to resist facing a crisis.

CREATING INTERFAITH AND CROSS CULTURAL BRIDGES

The work of Tito transcends the Catholic community. He is a proponent of interfaith dialogue and collaboration, knowing that peace and progress rely on the unity with other religious groups. He regularly interacts with leaders of other faiths for initiating joint projects like langar programmes, eco-cleanliness campaigns and cultural evenings. For Fr. Tito Soquiño, what he sees is a Cebu where everyone leads meaningful life even if they come from poor communities.

He lobbies for systemic shifts that will address the structural drivers of poverty and inequality, partnering with local government entities, civil society organizations and private actors in creating inclusive programs. He has not been resting on his actions. Fr. Tito has earned many awards and accolades for his work, but to him the best reward is a smile on one of the faces he assists as well as knowing that hes been able to make an impact in their life.

 A LEGACY OF SERVICE

Fr. Tito has a legacy of service to uphold in every field he serves, and it manifests through his mission all across the country. Fr. Tito keeps it modest and stays on the grind. He frequently says he is nothing more than a servant, following God in Christ to love and serve others. His life shows that one person can make a difference with love and duty in his or her heart.

Fr. Father Tito Soquiño is more than a priest; he's a humanitarian, an inspiration to the masses and one of those relentless individuals itching for change. His work serves as a reminder to every one of the power in service and faith. The profound impact of living a life dedicated to the service of others is what this Augustinian priest main goal. He has built more than just programs and projects—he has built a community bound by hope, resilience and love.