IBON Foundation mourns, along with his family, friends and colleagues, the passing of Bishop Elmer M. Bolocon early this week. He will be remembered as a peace advocate, staunch human rights defender, and for his unwavering commitment and service to the poor and vulnerable sectors of Philippine society.

From 1996 to 2006, he was the General Secretary of the United Church of Christ in the Philippines (UCCP). He also served as the Executive Secretary of the Ecumenical Bishops Forum (EBF) since 2009.

Bishop Elmer was a former member of IBON’s Board of Trustees for several years and was among the institution’s pillars in basing the advocacy of an alternative economic program on the Filipino people’s history and struggle for independence and democracy. He was known as a good listener and quiet worker. He continued to support and collaborate with IBON even after he retired from the board within the first decade of 2000 due to a lingering illness. Bishop Elmer Bolocon will truly be missed.