For Lebeco, being Worshipful Master was never simply about sitting in the East. The office required a broader perspective and an understanding of the needs and circumstances of the brethren. Leadership meant looking beyond the chair, recognizing the challenges facing the Lodge, and making decisions with the welfare of the institution as a whole in mind.

His term also involved difficult decisions. One of the most significant, by his account, was confronting and exposing what he described as corruption within the Lodge. He regarded this as a difficult but necessary responsibility, believing that problems affecting the Lodge had to be addressed rather than left unresolved. The experience reflected his view that leadership sometimes requires the courage to face uncomfortable situations for the sake of the institution.

Despite the challenges, Lebeco took pride in the efforts made to sustain Bathala Lodge during his administration. Charity was one of the defining priorities of his term. He also highlighted the consolidation of Lodge jewels and the production of items that were lacking and needed by the Lodge. These efforts were intended to support its activities, improve its resources, and contribute to its continued existence.

Among the brethren who supported him during this period was Hermano Karl Cuevas, whom Lebeco credited with helping him address the issues he had raised within the Lodge. That support was meaningful during a difficult period and illustrated the importance of solidarity among brethren when confronting challenging responsibilities.

The demands of the office also affected Lebeco's family life. Much of his time and attention was devoted to Lodge activities, requiring him to balance his Masonic responsibilities with his obligations at home. His experience demonstrated the personal sacrifices that can accompany leadership and the commitment required to fulfill the duties entrusted to a Worshipful Master.

Looking back, Lebeco believes that charitable work and fellowship deserve even greater emphasis. He would have liked to conduct more charitable activities and create more opportunities for brethren to spend time together. In his view, service allows Masons to help others beyond the Lodge, while fellowship strengthens the relationships and camaraderie that sustain the brethren through difficult times.

His advice to future Worshipful Masters is to avoid excessive leniency. Although diplomacy remains important, he cautions that too much leniency can lead some brethren to become less attentive to their responsibilities. A Worshipful Master, in his view, must understand when to be accommodating and when to stand firm, balancing diplomacy with discipline and accountability while keeping the welfare of the Lodge at the forefront.

Ultimately, Lebeco describes the legacy he hopes to leave in one word: sustainability. He believes that Masonic obligations are lifelong commitments and that the future of Bathala depends on brethren who remain dedicated through both favorable and difficult periods. The Lodge must endure beyond the tenure of any single Worshipful Master, sustained by members who continue to fulfill their obligations and work together toward its future.

For Hermano Enerito Lebeco, “Bigkis-Lahi,” the lasting measure of leadership is not merely the completion of a term in office, but the effort to help ensure that Bathala Lodge No. 1 remains active, united, and prepared for the generations that will follow.

This biography is part of “THE MEN WHO HELPED SHAPE BATHALA,” a continuing series by the Bathala Lodge No. 1 Historical Archive dedicated to preserving the lives, service, and Masonic journeys of the brethren who have helped shape the Lodge's history.

Preserving Our Brethren, Our History, Our Legacy.