Fr. Ernesto De Leon, a former catechetical official of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, died Saturday, June 13. He was 59.
The Diocese of Balanga announced his death “with deep sorrow,” while the CBCP joined in mourning the priest, recalling his dedicated service to catechesis and evangelization in the country.
De Leon served for many years as executive secretary of the CBCP Episcopal Commission on Evangelization and Catechesis (ECEC), formerly the Episcopal Commission on Catechesis and Catholic Education (ECCCE), before stepping down in November 2025.
CBCP Secretary General Msgr. Bernardo Pantin said De Leon served the commission with dedication and commitment throughout his ministry.
“Fr. Ernie served the commission with dedication and commitment for many years,” Pantin said. “He was a dependable and faithful collaborator who could always be counted on to carry out whatever task was entrusted to him.”
He added De Leon’s generous service “greatly contributed to the Church’s mission of catechesis and evangelization in the Philippines.”
The ECEC also expressed gratitude for his years of service, noting that he had worked with the body even before its reorganization and renaming in 2025.
“We will forever be grateful for Fr. Ernie’s dedicated service, unwavering commitment, and genuine love for catechists,” it said.
The commission said his contribution to catechetical ministry touched many lives and would continue to inspire future generations of catechists.
At the time of his death, De Leon was serving as parish priest of St. Peter Martyr of Verona Parish in Hermosa, Bataan.
The Balanga diocese described him as a faithful servant whose ministry and pastoral work touched countless lives.
“Fr. Ernie faithfully dedicated his life to the service of God and His people,” the diocese said. “Through his priestly ministry, he became a source of spiritual guidance, compassion and inspiration.”
The cause of death was not immediately known. His parish Facebook page showed De Leon celebrated Mass on Friday, June 12, for the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Funeral and wake arrangements have yet to be announced. The diocese said details would be released once finalized.