You know, when you sit down and look at the history between the Catholic Church and Freemasonry, it's fascinating; it goes back nearly three hundred years of back-and-forth. On one side, you have the Vatican raising concerns over things like philosophical naturalism, the idea of religious indifferentism, and those traditional oaths of secrecy. But if you chat with folks in the fraternity, they'll tell you Masonry isn't a religion at all. It doesn't have a theology, a clergy, or any path to salvation. Instead, they see it as a quiet space, a non-sectarian brotherhood where men of different faiths can come together to focus on moral growth, charity, and being good citizens in their communities. It’s a really deep conversation about tradition, conscience, and how different worldviews try to find common ground.

Enjoy these snapshots from our September 19, 2026, Stated Meeting held at the Macajalar Masonic Temple, with fellowship continuing at The Pearlmont Hotel Hotel. Check our Photo Gallery Page

Last June 28, Makahambus Masonic Lodge No. 315 gathered at Chamen Resort in Iponan for the joint celebration of our Family Day and 31st Charter Anniversary. Around 40 brethren, together with their families, spent the day enjoying good food, fellowship, and each other’s company. The children filled the resort with energy as they enjoyed the pool, participated in games prepared for them, and had an especially fun time when the foam machine was turned on. Away from the formality of our usual lodge gatherings, it was a day simply dedicated to strengthening friendships and enjoying the company of our Masonic family. The celebration of our 31st Charter Anniversary also gave us an opportunity to look back with gratitude. We honored our past masters and presented them with simple tokens of appreciation for their leadership, dedication, and labor throughout the years. The Lodge we have today stands upon the foundation laid by the brethren who came before us. Reaching 31 years is not simply a measure of time but a testament to the commitment of generations of brethren who have worked together in the spirit of brotherly love, relief, and Truth. It was fitting that on this important occasion, we recognized those who helped guide our lodge and preserve the principles and traditions we continue to uphold. Perhaps the most meaningful part of Family Day is that our brotherhood extends beyond the walls of the Lodge. Behind every brother is a family that supports the time and commitment we give to Masonry. While we brethren regularly see one another, our families may only have the opportunity to gather during occasions such as Family Day and our Christmas celebration. These gatherings allow our spouses to strengthen their friendships and our children to form bonds w ith one another. There is something special in seeing our children becoming friends because their fathers are brothers. In our simple way, we are building relationships that may last for generations—reminding us that the strength of our lodge is found not only in the brotherhood we share but also in the families who walk beside us.

By: Bro. Jon Michael Ang Senior Warden The Makahambus Masonic Lodge initiated its Brigada Eskwela outreach activity at Lumbia National High School, focusing on the school’s Special Education (SPED) Class, composed of 40 special needs students. The Brethren, together with VW Conrad Lim, DDGM, celebrated the meaningful occasion with WM Edward James “Ace” Go, the Senior Warden, Junior Warden, and the brethren of Makahambus Masonic Lodge. The students warmly welcomed the brethren with joyful and hopeful spirits. Their smiles and enthusiasm brought warmth to everyone present, creating a memorable and inspiring experience for the brethren, parents, and teachers. As part of the outreach, the brethren donated tents, school supply packs, and other necessities to help support the students and the SPED program. In his message, WM Edward James “Ace” Go expressed his sincere appreciation to the parents, teachers, and fellow Brethren for giving their time, effort, and resources to make the activity possible. The activity concluded with the brethren renewed in their commitment to the principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth—continuing the Masonic tradition of extending a helping hand to those in need and serving the community with compassion and sincerity. Together, we serve. Together, we make a difference.

The recently concluded Masonic Tri-District Convention for Region X brought together brethren from across Northern Mindanao for a day of renewed fellowship, administrative alignment, and shared purpose. Serving as a vital gathering for lodges under the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippines, the convention focused on strengthening the ties between local blue lodges. It also focused on refining district governance and reaffirming the craft's commitment to community leadership across Misamis Oriental, Bukidnon, and neighboring provinces. A central theme throughout the convention was the advancement of Masonic education and leadership development. Delegates engaged in dynamic discussions on ritualistic proficiency, the deeper philosophical foundations of Freemasonry, and the role of Masons as ethical pillars within their respective communities. Administrative harmony also took center stage, with leaders emphasizing streamlined communications, unified degree work, and continuous support for youth appendant bodies such as the Order of DeMolay and Job’s Daughters. The convention yielded several key resolutions aimed at enhancing district operations and expanding civic outreach. Delegates formally approved a synchronized schedule for joint district communications, official Grand Lodge visitations, and inter-district fellowship events for the upcoming Masonic year. Additionally, the assembly ratified pooled financial contributions to reinforce regional disaster relief preparedness and local charitable projects, alongside approving a standardized candidate mentorship framework to better guide newly initiated brethren on their Masonic journey. Among the active participants were the officers and brethren of Makahambus Lodge No. 315, led by Worshipful Master Edward James Go, Senior Warden Jon Michael Ang, and Junior Warden Christopher Eric Lim. Their dedicated presence, along with the active engagement of the lodge's members, highlighted Makahambus Lodge’s steadfast dedication to district governance, charity, and the continued growth of Freemasonry in the region. Closing on a high note of unity and enthusiasm, the Tri-District Convention demonstrated the enduring vitality of Freemasonry in Region X. Brethren departed the gathering with a reaffirmed pledge to the timeless principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth, fully prepared to lead by example and make a lasting, positive impact across Northern Mindanao.

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Officers and brethren of Makahambus Lodge No. 315, F. & A.M., led by Worshipful Master Edward James “Ace” Go, joined the city’s commemoration of the 128th Philippine Independence Day on June 12, 2026. The lodge took part in the civic program at Kiosko Kagawasan in Plaza Divisoria, where the city government, national agencies, barangays, uniformed services, and civic organizations gathered under the theme Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan. The rites included a flag parade along Velez Street, flag-raising, a mass wreath-laying, and an interfaith prayer. Representing Mayor Rolando “Klarex” Uy, City Council Majority Floor Leader Atty. Edgar Cabanlas called on Kagay-anons to treat independence not only as a day of remembrance but also as a duty of civic responsibility. He urged citizens to lead with integrity, stay informed, vote wisely, and live in a manner that honors the sacrifices of Aguinaldo, Bonifacio, Rizal, and those who fought for the nation’s freedom. For Makahambus Lodge No. 315, the observance carries a local historical echo. The lodge takes its name from Makahambus Cave and the Battle of Macahambus Hill in 1900, remembered as an early Filipino victory during the Philippine–American War. Joining the city’s Independence Day rites placed that heritage alongside the national celebration of June 12, 1898. Worshipful Master Go led the brethren in standing with the wider Kagay-anon community, affirming Freemasonry’s public commitment to brotherly love, relief, and truth through visible service and respect for the flag.

MW Peter Lim Lo Suy, PGM & WB James Go, PGSB, PDDGM The Brethren of Makahambus Lodge No. 315, Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippines, paid tribute to two distinguished pillars of the Lodge by conferring upon them the title of Honorary Past Masters: Most Worshipful Peter U. Lim Lo Suy and Worshipful Brother James Go. Both brethren played instrumental roles in the establishment, growth, and continued success of Makahambus Lodge. Most Worshipful Peter U. Lim Lo Suy is widely regarded as one of the principal architects of the Lodge's birth, having been among its founding petitioners and steadfast supporters from its earliest days. Worshipful Brother James Go, on the other hand, earned the respect and affection of the brethren as a father figure and mentor to generations of Master Masons, providing guidance, wisdom, and leadership throughout the years. Among their most enduring contributions was their role in helping the Lodge achieve chartered status. During the Annual Communication of the Grand Lodge in April 1995, the Committee on Charters recommended the granting of a charter to Makahambus Lodge. After determining that it had successfully initiated twelve candidates, passed nine Fellow Crafts, and raised six brethren to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. Recognizing the Lodge's accomplishments, regularity, and commitment to Masonic labor, the Grand Lodge approved the recommendation and officially granted a charter, assigning the Lodge the number 315. The conferment of the title of Honorary Past Master upon MW Peter U. Lim Lo Suy and WB James Go serves as a fitting recognition of their invaluable contributions, unwavering dedication, and lasting legacy. Through their vision, leadership, and commitment to the ideals of Freemasonry, they helped build not only a Lodge, but a thriving fraternity that continues to uphold the principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth.

During the Monthly Stated Meeting of Makahambus Lodge No. 315, F.A.A.M., for the month of May 2026, the Lodge convened at approximately 5:30 in the afternoon, with Worshipful Master Edward James “Ace” Go sitting in the East, in an atmosphere of brotherhood and Masonic fellowship. The meeting was highlighted by the official welcome and recognition of the appointed officers of the Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippines, who will assist, supervise, and guide the lodge for Masonic Year 2026–2027. The distinguished Grand Lodge Officers introduced and recognized were: • VW Conrad Lim—District Deputy Grand Master (DDGM), Cagayan de Oro (Central) • VW Ernesto Sanches—Junior Grand Lecturer (JGL), Northern Mindanao • VW Lemuel Gonda—District Grand Lecturer (DGL), Cagayan de Oro (Central) • VW Alejandro Dichosa III—Grand Lodge Inspector (GLI), Cagayan de Oro (Central) A portion of the meeting was devoted to the Masonic Lecture delivered by the Grand Lodge Lecturer entitled, “Why We Become Masons: Beyond Initiation and Titles.” The lecture emphasized that the true essence of Freemasonry goes far beyond initiation, degrees, titles, or positions. Instead, it teaches that the real purpose of the Craft is the continuous transformation of a man into a better version of himself through discipline, humility, fairness, self-control, integrity, and moral refinement. The lecture further reminded the Brethren that Masonry’s true labor begins after initiation, challenging every Mason to practice self-examination, strengthen his character, and apply the principles of the Craft in his daily life, family, profession, and service to humanity. The message inspired the Brethren to remain steadfast in their commitment to personal growth and worthy conduct, both within and outside the Lodge. The meeting also featured the balloting of a petitioner seeking admission into the fraternity, as well as the recognition and greeting of the lodge celebrants for the month of May. The stated meeting concluded at approximately 8:30 in the evening, after which fellowship and fraternal camaraderie followed among the Brethren.

Makahambus Lodge No. 315, Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippines, celebrated its Installation of Officers at the Macajalar Lodge Masonic Temple in Cagayan de Oro City. The solemn and dignified ceremony marked the beginning of a new Masonic year under the theme: “Advancing the Craft, Esteeming Generations and Origins.” Latest Newsletter February 2026 Catch up on the latest Makahambus Lodge No. 315 Newsletter (Installation Edition)! Click the link to view or scan the QR code for easy reading anytime, anywhere. Or download your copy here . Installed and Appointed Officers The following brethren were formally installed and appointed to their respective stations and offices: - Worshipful Master : Edward James “Ace” Go - Senior Warden: Bro. Jon Michael Ang - Junior Warden: Bro. Christopher Eric Lim - Treasurer: Bro. John Martin Go - Secretary: WB Ivan Lloyd Tan-Leh - Auditor: WB Jesus Chan, PDGL - Harmony Officer: WB Francis Balabat, PDGL - Chaplain: Bro. Rommel Collantes - Marshall: Bro. Derek Co - Senior Deacon: Bro. Al Vincent Corretas - Junior Deacon: Bro. Samuel Rollo - Senior Steward: Bro. Galen Clyde Gordiel - Junior Steward: Bro. Emmanuel Sia, Jr. - Almoner: Bro. Terrence Clyve Chiong - Organist: Bro. Ralph Martin Rafanan - Tyler: WB Aldrich Uayan - Orator: Bro. PJ Oran III Keynote Address The highlight of the evening was the keynote message delivered by Most Worshipful Peter Lim Lo Suy , Past Grand Master of the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippines, and Honorary Past Master of Makahambus Lodge. His inspiring words emphasized the importance of unity, tradition, and the Lodge’s commitment to advancing the Craft while honoring its origins. Fellowship Following the installation rites, brethren and guests gathered for fellowship at the Country Village Hotel, Cagayan de Oro City. The evening was filled with camaraderie, brotherhood, and renewed dedication to the principles of Freemasonry.

Bro. Galen Clyde D. Gordiel , 37 years of age, is a proud son of Cagayan de Oro City  and currently resides at Manansala Street, Philamlife Village Subdivision . Bro. Emmanuel S. Sia, Jr. , is 32 years old and currently resides in Brgy. Lumbia, Misamis Oriental.

Enjoy these snapshots from our January 2026 Stated Meeting held at the Macajalar Masonic Temple, with fellowship continuing at The Country Village Hotel.

As we enter the year 2026, the brethren of Makahambus Lodge No. 315 join the global fraternity of Freemasonry in extending fraternal greetings of harmony and goodwill. This year, our message carries a profound call: to labor together for peace in a world that longs for unity. Freemasonry has always stood as a beacon of brotherhood, charity, and truth. In 2026, these values must shine brighter than ever. The square reminds us of fairness, the compass of restraint, and the level of equality—tools that guide us toward peace not only within our lodges but across nations. Our greetings this year are more than ceremonial words; they are pledges of solidarity. Lodges across the Philippines and the world continue to serve communities through education, relief, and outreach, proving that charity is the most practical expression of love. May our collective efforts build temples of peace in the hearts of men, and may our greetings inspire all to labor for justice, kindness, and harmony. Fraternal greetings for 2026: May the light of Masonry shine as a universal symbol of peace around the world.