Archbishop Fernando Capalla of Davao says he is still going strong and will continue serving as prelate of the southern Philippine city after marking the 50th anniversary of his ministry. “I will continue working as archbishop and head of the Bishops-Ulama Conference,” Archbishop Capalla told Church and government leaders during a recent gathering to celebrate the anniversary in Davao City. The archbishop said he will devote more time to the Bishops-Ulama Conference and on peace-building efforts. “It is more important now. Peace talks between the government, the [Muslim and communist rebels] are just getting off the ground. We need more dialogue,” he said. The prelate said Pope Benedict XVI did not accept his offer of retirement when he reached the mandatory retirement age of 75. Archbishop Capalla was born on November 1, 1934 and ordained a priest on March 18, 1961. He was appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Davao by Pope Paul VI on April 8, 1975. PM13676.1645