THE sudden passing of Very Reverend Father Geremvit Inoferio Truno, aged 58, Rector of Saint Joseph Seminary College, has deeply saddened many. He departed on April 13, 2024, at 5:17 PM in Coron District Hospital, Coron Busuanga, succumbing to cardiac arrest resulting from myocardial infraction. He was enjoying a break in Coron with the Seminary Fathers, faculty, and staff following the conclusion of the school year activities.
Truly, his departure is a significant loss to the priesthood, to us all, to the Diocese of Dumaguete, and DCCCO Multipurpose Cooperative.
Fr. Gerry’s journey in the priesthood, which would have marked its 32nd anniversary on May 26, 2024, began on May 26, 1992, when he was ordained.
As Ecclesiastes 3:2 reminds us, “There is a time to be born and a time to die.” Death comes to each of us, regardless of age or circumstance. Some depart this world swiftly, while others endure prolonged suffering. Truly, only God knows the hour of our passing.
Describing him as a holy man, Reverend Father Gonzalo Omison, Chancellor of the Diocese of Dumaguete, reflected on Fr. Gerry’s gentle and compassionate nature during his homily at the Bishop’s Residence in Bagacay, a day after Fr. Gerry’s passing.
Fr. Truno’s aspirations were fulfilled when he became a priest, as shared by DCCCO BOD Vice-Chairperson Mary Magdalene Villegas, VP for Finance at COSCA.
My last encounter with Fr. Truno was during the Kumpisalan ng Bayan at the Cathedral Church on March 14, 2024, amid the Lenten season. My wife and I found solace in his counsel during confession. His wisdom and attentive ear left a lasting impression on us.
During his tenure as Ethics Committee Chairperson from 2012 to 2022, Fr. Truno diligently served DCCCO Multipurpose Cooperative. His dedication extended to advocating for scholarships for academically gifted seminarians, ensuring their pursuit of the priesthood was financially supported by DCCCO.
As mentioned in Proverbs 11:14, “Where there is no guidance, a people fall, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” Fr. Truno’s leadership in presenting the Code of Governance to the Representative Assembly in 2016 underscored his commitment to accountability and ethical conduct within the cooperative.
Fr. Gerry’s interventions with cooperative employees, such as Bernard John Warren Unabia and Ronald Pinero, exemplified his pastoral care beyond the confines of the church.
Known for his simplicity, Fr. Gerry’s modest attire and demeanor endeared him to many, as recalled by Mrs. Epifania Dante-Sonjaco, BOD Secretary. His ready smile, lightheartedness and humor brought joy to those around him, creating cherished memories during travels and seminars.
In his homily during the Requiem Mass, Fr. Eric Lozada reflected on Fr. Gerry’s profound impact as an exemplar of priesthood and ministry. Indeed, his legacy serves as a guiding light for all who knew him, embodying the virtues of compassion, humility, and service.
As we bid farewell to Fr. Gerry, may we find solace in Psalm 23:4, “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
