I was baptized Eliseo J. Sangco. But they called me “Elie”. After my ordination to the priesthood, they called me “Father”.
Anyway, I entered the seminary at the age of 16. I graduated with a Diploma of Bachelor of Arts & Sciences major in Philosophy, minor in Religious Studies. Then, I continued my Post Graduate Studies with a master of Arts in Theology (MAT), major in Pastoral Ministry.
Right after my ordination to the priesthood, I was sent to Papua New Guinea (PNG) as my first mission. I worked in the Diocese of Vanimo, Western Province. My parish assignment was near the border of Indonesia. Most of the chapels and communities were situated in the bush. I used to travel by foot, crossing rivers, climbing mountains and cutting the bush to reach the people in the jungle.
Years later, I worked in the Archdiocese of Port Moresby. Most of the apostolate I engaged was administering the parish.
After 20 years in PNG, I went home for good in the Philippines. Then I am here in New Zealand.