Haraya

Hermano Benigno Urquico Jr.

Masonic Name: Haraya

Past Master of Bathala Lodge No. 1 | Grand Secretary of the Sovereign Grand Lodge of the Philippine Archipelago (2026)

A Life of Service, Humility, and Unwavering Brotherhood

For Hermano Benigno Urquico Jr., known in Masonry as Haraya, the value of Freemasonry lies not in the titles one holds or the recognition one receives, but in the service one renders and the relationships one builds along the way. His Masonic journey reflects a commitment to humility, loyalty, and the belief that a brother should enter the Craft not for personal gain, but for the opportunity to contribute to something greater than himself.

Outside the Lodge, Benigno serves as Head of Business Operations for a construction company, a professional role that involves responsibility, coordination, and working with others toward shared objectives. Within Freemasonry, he has likewise accepted responsibilities at different levels, serving Bathala Lodge No. 1 and the wider Masonic jurisdiction. His experience reflects a continuing willingness to take on duties when called upon and to give his best to the work entrusted to him.

The Beginning of a Masonic Journey

Benigno's interest in Freemasonry grew from his curiosity about the different Masonic traditions, particularly the distinctions between the Scottish Rite and the York Rite. His exploration eventually brought him into the company of brethren who would help shape his understanding of the Craft, including Hermano Ramil and IPB Charles, who were part of his Masonic jurisdiction.

As his journey progressed, he came to appreciate that Freemasonry is more than an organization or a collection of ceremonies. It is a brotherhood whose value is reflected in the character of its members, the principles they uphold, and the way they treat one another.

For Haraya, the lessons of Masonry are inseparable from the responsibility to remain humble. Regardless of one's position, there is always more to learn, more work to be done, and more opportunities to help others.

Service to Bathala and the Craft

Benigno's service has included several responsibilities within the Masonic body. At Bathala Lodge No. 1, he served as Secretary and Senior Warden before becoming one of the brethren entrusted with the Lodge's leadership as a Past Master.

He also took part in the establishment of Noli Fili Lodge as its Chartering Worshipful Master and subsequently served as its elected Worshipful Master. These responsibilities reflect a range of service extending beyond a single Lodge, while remaining grounded in the same commitment to fellowship and the welfare of the brethren.

His Masonic service later included Grand Orator and, currently, Grand Secretary of the Sovereign Grand Lodge of the Philippine Archipelago. In each of these roles, the nature of the responsibility may differ, but the underlying obligation remains: to serve the Craft faithfully and fulfill the duties entrusted to him.

For Benigno, accepting a position is not about seeking a particular title. He believes that the brethren and the Masonic body must determine where a member can best serve. Once entrusted with a responsibility, however, a Mason must give his best and carry out his duties with sincerity.

This perspective offers a simple but meaningful understanding of leadership. Service begins with a willingness to contribute, and it is sustained by the commitment to fulfill one's obligations regardless of the office held.

Brotherhood as Family

One of the strongest themes in Benigno's reflections is his understanding of brotherhood as a family bond. He speaks particularly of the brethren of Bathala and Noli Fili, whom he regards not merely as fellow Masons, but as brothers whose connection extends beyond formal Lodge activities.

This sense of fellowship shapes how he approaches his relationships within the Craft. Brotherhood, in his view, is demonstrated by standing beside one another, offering help when needed, and remaining loyal through difficult circumstances.

He identifies several brethren who have influenced his Masonic journey, including Grand Master Ramil, Deputy Grand Master Joell, Past Master Moises, IPB Charles, and SGC Fajardo. Among the lessons he associates with their guidance, humility stands out.

The importance he places on humility reflects his belief that no position makes a Mason greater than the principles he is expected to uphold. Titles and responsibilities may change, but respect for one's brethren and a willingness to learn must remain.

A Call for Unity and Genuine Fraternity

Benigno is candid about one of the challenges he sees within the brotherhood: the presence of politics among Masons. For him, such divisions can distract from the purpose that should unite the Craft.

His hope is for brethren to treat one another with respect, set aside unnecessary divisions, and preserve the spirit of genuine fraternity. Brotherhood must be more than a word used among members; it must be reflected in their conduct, their willingness to cooperate, and their readiness to help one another.

He also emphasizes the importance of making full use of one's cable-tow in the service of the brethren. To him, commitment is measured by a Mason's willingness to help to the fullest extent of his ability.

This principle places the emphasis on action rather than appearance. A brother's contribution need not be defined by the prominence of his office, but by the sincerity of his effort and the practical support he gives to the Lodge and its members.

Pride in Bathala's Growth

As a pioneering member of Bathala Lodge, Benigno takes pride in seeing the Lodge progress and its members grow in their respective journeys. The achievements of the brethren and the development of the Lodge are sources of satisfaction because they represent the collective efforts of those who have contributed to its continuing story.

His reflections recognize that the growth of an institution is not the work of one person alone. It is built through the time, commitment, and cooperation of many brethren, each contributing according to his ability and responsibilities.

For a member who has served as Secretary, Senior Warden, and Past Master, the development of Bathala carries a personal significance. It represents not only the progress of the Lodge itself, but also the shared experiences and relationships formed through service.

Advice to the Next Generation

Benigno's advice to future generations of Masons is direct: do not join the Craft for personal gain. Join to contribute.

He believes that the true value of membership lies in the opportunity to serve, improve oneself, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of fellow Masons and the wider community. The privileges associated with membership should never overshadow the obligations that come with it.

For those who aspire to leadership, his reflections offer a reminder that service must come before ambition. A position should be accepted as a responsibility, not pursued merely as a mark of distinction. The measure of commitment is found in the work a brother is willing to do and the assistance he is prepared to give.

These lessons are especially relevant to younger brethren who will eventually assume greater responsibilities. The future of the Craft depends not only on capable officers, but also on members who understand that the principles of Freemasonry must be practiced consistently, both inside and outside the Lodge.

A Legacy of Loyalty and Service

When asked about the legacy he hopes to leave, Benigno's response centers on loyalty and steadfastness. He hopes to be remembered as a brother who remained beside his brethren through every trial, faithful to the relationships and obligations that define genuine brotherhood.

His story reflects a view of Freemasonry in which service is a continuing commitment rather than a temporary responsibility attached to an office. From his work within Bathala Lodge to his responsibilities in the wider jurisdiction, the central principle remains the same: to serve faithfully, remain humble, and stand by one's brethren.

As Past Master of Bathala Lodge No. 1 and Grand Secretary of the Sovereign Grand Lodge of the Philippine Archipelago, Hermano Benigno Urquico Jr., Haraya, continues his Masonic journey through responsibilities that call for dedication and a commitment to the Craft.

His reflections leave future generations with a clear message: do not measure your Masonic journey by the titles you attain, but by the service you render, the humility you preserve, and the brothers you never abandon.

Preserving Our Brethren, Our History, Our Legacy.

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