(CACTUS News | Jaro, Iloilo City, May 5, 2026) — This year, a little boy from Ungka, Jaro, Iloilo City, made history. Once a young catechist volunteer and later a teacher by profession, he became the first Carmelite priest to emerge from a Carmelite parish. Along Lopez Jaena Street, Barangay San Isidro, St. Joseph the Worker Parish was founded by the Irish Carmelite Fathers. Known for their zeal and dedication to missionary work, the Irish Carmelites left a lasting mark on the faith life of the community. The Carmelite friars who came to Iloilo were no exception. It is no wonder that parishioners from neighboring towns such as Leganes and Zarraga, as well as those living around St. Joseph the Worker Parish, continue to flock to the church for sacramental celebrations and devotional practices. It was during the pastoral leadership of Fr. Alex Collera, OCD that a young boy first encountered the Carmelite spirit and was unknowingly being prepared by God to become a Carmelite priest one day. Rev. Fr. Robert Jacome, OCD, was once a catechist, a choir member, and a teacher by profession. On May 2, 2026, he achieved something remarkable that many may not know. He was baptized, received First Holy Communion, was confirmed, and was ordained a priest in the Order of Discalced Carmelites—all in the same parish. Four sacraments received in the same Church over the course of his life. This is a beautiful testament to how patiently God's grace works and unfolds in a person's journey. Grateful for his humble beginnings, Rev. Fr. Robert Jacome, OCD, though newly ordained, was entrusted with the responsibility of the Vocation Ministry. Just as he was once drawn to God's presence through the life of the parish, it is now Fr. Robert's mission to inspire and attract new vocations to Carmel. Madamo gid na salamat Ungka Jaro!