Malolos: Pope Francis has named six priests of the Diocese of Malolos as monsignors. In a social media post Monday, the diocese announced that Bulacan province priests Fr. Narciso Sampana, Fr. Domingo Salonga, Fr. Leocadio de Jesus, Fr. Florentino Concepcion, Fr. Javer Joaquin, and Fr. Dario Cabral have been named 'Chaplain to His Holiness' and given the title of monsignor.

According to Philippines News Agency, Malolos Bishop Dennis Villarojo expressed that it is an honor given to the presbyterium. He noted that it is part of how the Church recognizes its ministers and also serves as a call to greater service to facilitate the ministerial activities within the diocese.

A monsignor is an honorary title granted by the pope, typically upon the recommendation of the bishop. This title does not affect the priest's duties or ministerial assignment. It is usually given to priests who have provided significant service to the Church or have played a special role in church governance.

Fr. Narciso Sampana is the rector and parish priest of the Diocesan Shrine and Parish of St. Augustine in Baliwag City. Fr. Domingo Salonga serves as the parish priest of Nuestra Se±ora del Carmen Parish, also known as Barasoain Church, in the City of Malolos.

Fr. Leocadio de Jesus is the parish priest of Sto. Ni±o Parish, while Fr. Florentino Concepcion is the director of Bahay at Yaman ni San Martin de Porres, both located in Bustos. Fr. Javer Joaquin is the rector and parish priest of the Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Nuestra Se±ora dela Asuncion in Bulakan. Fr. Dario Cabral serves as rector and parish priest of the Diocesan Shrine and Parish of San Isidro Labrador in Pulilan.

The Malolos diocese, established in 1961, is one of the largest in the country. It not only covers Bulacan but also extends to Valenzuela City in the National Capital Region.