Molave

Having served in these capacities, Molave chose not to pursue higher office. After retiring from a long military career, he preferred to devote his time to managing his business, caring for his small farm, and enjoying the peaceful surroundings of his retirement home.

His decision reflects a personal understanding of service: leadership does not always require seeking another title or position. There are times when the most meaningful contribution is to remain available, offer guidance, and help when needed.

Today, Molave continues to support Bathala Lodge and the Grand Lodge within the limits of his cable-tow. He also serves as an adviser to appointed and elected officers, sharing the experience he has gained through his military career and Masonic service.

Lessons from a Mentor

An important influence on Molave's Masonic journey has been the current Grand Master, Atty. Ramil Margate. Through his mentorship, Molave learned the workings of a Lodge, its rituals, and the responsibilities and proper conduct expected of a Mason.

Beyond ritual proficiency and Masonic procedure, he identifies patience, humility, and good character as essential lessons he has carried forward.

These virtues complement the discipline he developed during his years in the Armed Forces. In both military and Masonic life, responsibility requires more than knowledge of one's duties. It also calls for sound judgment, self-control, respect for others, and a willingness to continue learning.

Molave's appreciation for his mentor reflects the importance of guidance within the Craft. Experienced brethren help preserve traditions and pass on the knowledge and values that enable younger members to serve with confidence and understanding.

The Challenges of Brotherhood

Molave identifies two continuing challenges in Masonic life: remaining active within the jurisdiction and navigating the politics that can arise within an organization.

His observations reflect a concern that the work of the Craft should remain central, even when differing interests and opinions create difficulties. Maintaining active participation requires commitment, while preserving brotherhood requires patience and a willingness to look beyond personal disagreements.

For Molave, the answer lies in the way Masons treat one another. He describes brotherhood simply: every member should be treated as a real brother. He believes Bathala has embodied this spirit by treating its members in that manner.

This understanding of fraternity is straightforward but demanding. It asks every Mason to demonstrate brotherly regard through conduct, not merely through words or formal observance. It also reminds brethren that unity is sustained by the everyday choices they make in their relationships with one another.

A Concern for Bathala's Future

Among the contributions Molave values is the opportunity he had to serve as Senior Warden, Past Master, and Grand Tyler. Through these roles, he worked alongside brethren and gained experience that he continues to share with members under his guidance.

He takes pride in having served during a period when he came to know many of the Lodge's members through his responsibilities. His continuing involvement allows him to offer advice and support to those who now carry the work forward.

When asked what advice he would give to future generations, Molave offered a direct and important message: bring new blood into the Lodge, or risk allowing it to die a natural death.

His words express a concern for continuity. A Lodge must welcome new members, encourage their development, and ensure that the principles and traditions of the Craft are carried into the next generation. Preserving history is important, but so is creating a future in which that history continues to matter.

For Molave, the Lodge's long-term strength depends on its ability to renew itself while remaining faithful to its values. New members bring fresh energy and perspectives, while experienced brethren provide guidance and help maintain the standards that define the institution.

Preserving the Glory Days of Bathala

When reflecting on the legacy he hopes to leave, Molave calls on future brethren to handle the Lodge with the same care and commitment shown by the three principal officers, or Three Lights, during his generation. He hopes that Bathala will continue moving forward rather than become regressive.

He also expresses a desire to see the Lodge regain the glory days he remembers from its Second Generation.

His message is both a reflection on the past and a challenge to the future. The achievements and fellowship of earlier brethren should not remain only as memories. They should serve as a foundation upon which succeeding generations can build.

For Molave, honoring Bathala's history means carrying forward the dedication, unity, and leadership that made the Lodge meaningful to its members. It means learning from the past while remaining active in shaping what comes next.

A Legacy of Steadfast Service

Hermano Moises Dela Cruz Duque, Molave, brings to Bathala Lodge the perspective of a man who devoted 38 years to military service and continued to serve the Craft after retirement. His journey reflects the value of discipline, the importance of mentorship, and the belief that brotherhood must be practiced through genuine respect and mutual support.

Though he chose a quieter life rather than pursuing higher Masonic office, he has remained willing to assist the Lodge and the Grand Lodge within the reach of his cable-tow. His willingness to advise fellow officers demonstrates that service can continue long after a formal term has ended.

His reflections leave Bathala's future generations with two clear responsibilities: preserve the spirit of brotherhood that strengthens the Lodge, and welcome the new members who will carry its work forward.

The history of a Lodge is not sustained by its past alone. It lives through the brethren who continue to serve, guide, and prepare the way for those who follow.

Preserving Our Brethren, Our History, Our Legacy.