Fr. Joel Silagpo became viral last year for selling fish to raise funds for their church

He shared that many tried to disappoint him; that being a priest he need not be a fish vendor

With the help of their community, the San Antonio de Padua Parish Church was finally finished

Fr. Joel Silagpo of San Antonio de Padua Parish Church finally achieved his dream of building a church in Sta. Clara, Lamitan City, Province of Basilan.

Fr. Joel went viral last year after his photos selling fishes spread like wildfire online.

A lot of netizens praised the priest for his sacrifices and hard work just to raise funds for their church’s construction. He said that many laughed at his idea of being a fish vendor; saying that he shouldn’t be doing it because he’s a priest. But the determined priest didn’t falter until finally his dream came true.

Just earlier this month, the San Antonio de Padua Parish Church had its blessing as it opened its door for all their parishioners. Victor Booc Capistrano shared the memorable event on Facebook; saying that it was a “significant occasion to compliment the Santa Clarans and donors for their love, faith and hardwork now came into fruition.”

The event was attended by Mayor Rose Uy Furigay and Vice Mayor Oric Furigay. A mass and consecration of the altar was celebrated by Archbishop Martin Jumoad (Former Bishop of Prelature of Isabela de Basilan) together with the Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Joel Silagpo and 10 visiting priests.

Such a beautiful story of how a priest’s humility and the community’s support made their dream a reality.