Templong Anituhan

PREAMBLE

We, the members of Templong Anituhan Inc., consecrated vessels of the Spirit of God, do hereby establish this organization to embody and uphold the sacred traditions of our ancestors.

The name Templong Anituhan reflects our sacred identity: Temple is derived from the Latin word Templum, meaning “an open and consecrated place,” while Anituhan is a fusion of Anito, the ancestral spirit, and Tuhan, an Austronesian word for God—thus, Anituhan means Spirit of God.

We are incorporated to revive and preserve the rich heritage of Philippine Indigenous Spiritual Beliefs and Practices, honoring the precolonial Filipino Gods—Diwata, Engkanto, and Anito. We aim to provide comprehensive religious education and spiritual services, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of our ancestral traditions among believers and the general public.

We envision Templong Anituhan to be a leading center for the revival and promotion of Philippine Indigenous Spirituality, where the wisdom of our ancestors is cherished and passed down through generations. We aspire to build a community where the old beliefs and practices are integrated into modern life, enriching the spiritual and cultural fabric of society.

In fulfillment of this sacred calling, we pledge to uphold the values of reverence, wisdom, and service, and to walk in harmony with the Divine Spirit and the ancestral guides who continue to inspire our path.

ARTICLE I. DECLARATION OF PRINCIPLES

1. Sacred Identity
   We affirm that Templong Anituhan is a consecrated vessel of the Spirit of God. Our name reflects our sacred calling: Templum—an open and consecrated place, and Anituhan—the union of Anito (ancestral spirit) and Tuhan (God), signifying our devotion to the Divine Spirit manifested through our ancestors.
2. Spiritual Heritage
   We are rooted in the ancient spiritual traditions of the Filipino people. We honor the precolonial deities—Diwata, Engkanto, and Anito—as sacred expressions of the Divine, and we commit to preserving their memory and wisdom through ritual, education, and service.
3. Mission of Revival and Preservation
   We are dedicated to reviving and preserving the rich heritage of Philippine Indigenous Spiritual Beliefs and Practices. Through sacred rites, teachings, and community engagement, we seek to restore the spiritual dignity of our people.
4. Commitment to Education and Ordination
   We provide a structured Religious Education Program that leads to spiritual formation and ordination into the Faith. We believe that knowledge, when rooted in ancestral wisdom, becomes a path to enlightenment and service.
5. Ministerial Service to the People
   We exist to serve. Our Ministerial Centers are sanctuaries of healing, learning, and spiritual guidance for all who seek comfort, clarity, and connection with the Divine.
6. Vision of Cultural Integration
   We envision a society where Indigenous Spirituality is not forgotten but integrated into modern life. We believe that the wisdom of our ancestors can enrich the spiritual and cultural fabric of contemporary society.
7. Harmony with the Divine and the Ancestors
   We walk in harmony with the Divine Spirit and the ancestral guides who continue to inspire our path. We uphold the values of reverence, wisdom, compassion, and service in all that we do.

ARTICLE II. TEMPLE MEMBERSHIP

1. Templong Anituhan Inc. does not accept Traditional Membership. Instead, we engage in a process of “REMEMBERING”, wherein individuals reconnect with their Indigenous Ancestral Spiritual Lineage. This process is open to all who seek to rediscover and honor their ancestral spiritual lineage.
2. Admission to Templong Anituhan Inc. is conducted through the remembering process. Participants must complete a series of educational classes, workshops, and seminars designed to deepen their understanding of Filipino Indigenous Spiritual Beliefs and Practices.
3.  Upon successful completion of the remembering process, participants will undergo the Bansagan Talatanda Naming Ceremony Ritual. This ritual serves as a formal recognition of their commitment to the principles and purposes of Templong Anituhan Inc. and marks their official inclusion in the Community.
4.  Participants who have completed the Remembering Process and the Bansagan Talatanda Naming Ceremony Ritual shall have the right to partake in all organizational activities and contribute to the preservation and promotion of Philippine Indigenous Spiritual Beliefs and Practices. They are responsible for upholding the values and objectives of Templong Anituhan Inc.

ARTICLE III. MEMBERSHIP TYPES AND QUALIFICATION

SECTION 1. Membership in Templong Anituhan is consist of Pithaya, Nabansagan and Inatasan.

1. Pithaya are Individuals who desire to be part of the Templong Anituhan Inc. that undergo the Remembering Process which called Pag alaala or Pagdumduman Class.
2. Once an individual completed the Pagdumduman class, they will undergo the Bansagan Talatanda Naming Ceremony Ritual and will become Nabansagan which is a regular member of Templong Anituhan.
3. A Nabansagan member may elevate their status by becoming an Inatasan which is an Ordained Member of the Temple.
4. Templong Anituhan Inc. also recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of Indigenous Spiritual Beliefs and Practices; thus, the Board of Trustees will bestow to them Honorary membership to the Temple as Kaagapay.

SECTION 2. QUALIFICATIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP

1. Pithaya Participants.
   • Must be at least 18 years of age
   • Must demonstrate a genuine interest in reconnecting with their Indigenous Ancestral Spiritual Lineage.
   • Must commit to actively participate in Pagalaala Membership Admission Class.
   • Must be willing to undergo Bansagan Talatanda Naming Ceremony ritual and become an Active Member of Templong Anituhan.
2. Nabansagan are regular members of the Temple. For them to maintain good standing with the temple:
   • They must have completed the Pagalaala Membership Admission Class.
   • They must undertake the Bansagan Talatanda Naming Ceremony.
   • They must actively participate in Temple activities and events.
   • They must honor the monthly or annual pledge they commit to the temple.
3. Inatasan are Ordained Members of the Temple. For them to maintain good standing with the temple:
   • They must have completed the Pagalaala Membership Admission Class.
   • They must have undertaken the Bansagan Talatanda Naming Ceremony.
   • They must be an active member in good standing within the temple for about a year.
   • They must express their intention to the Board of Trustees to become an Ordained Member of the Temple.
   • Must undertake the IFS or Indigenous Filipino Spirituality Course.
   • Must be able to undertake the Pagaatas Ordination Ceremony Ritual.
4. Kaagapay are Honorary members of the Temple on which qualifications are as follows:
   • Must be nominated by Inatasan Member of the Temple.
   • Must have made significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of Indigenous Spiritual Beliefs and Practices.
   • Must be approved by a majority vote of the Board of Trustees

SECTION 3. APPLICATION PROCESS

• Prospective members must submit an application form to the Board of Trustee to take the Pagalaala Membership Admission Class.
• Upon completion of the Pagalaala Membership Admission Class, the Gabay mentor who administer the class will provide recommendation for Bansagan Talatanda Naming Ceremony.
• Candidate must pay necessary fee as determined by the Board of Trustees to commence the Bansagan Talatanda Naming Ceremony Ritual.
• A Nabansagan may express their desire to become an Inatasan through Writing to the Board of Trustees to study the IFS Course.
• Upon completion of the required competency, the Guro will provide recommendation letter for Pagaatas Ritual.
• Upon payment of the necessary fee, the Pagaatas will commence upon the determination of the Board of Trustees.

ARTICLE IV. MEMBERSHIP DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

SECTION 1. Templong Anituhan recognizes four distinct types of members, each representing a unique stage of spiritual engagement and service within the Temple. These categories define the roles, responsibilities, and privileges of individuals who walk the sacred path of Aghamic Faith.

1. Pithaya (Seeker)

Definition: A non-member who expresses sincere interest in joining the Temple and begins their journey of spiritual inquiry.
Duties and Responsibilities:

• Attend public rituals, teachings, and orientations to learn about the Temple’s beliefs and practices.
• Observe and respect the sacred space and customs of the Temple.
• Participate in introductory activities and discern their spiritual calling.
• Prepare for formal initiation into the Temple as a Nabansagan.

2. Nabansagan (Named Member)

Definition: A formally initiated member who has received a spiritual name and recognition within the Temple.
Duties and Responsibilities:

• Uphold the teachings, values, and spiritual disciplines of Templong Anituhan.
• Participate regularly in rituals, gatherings, and community service.
• Support the Temple through offerings, volunteer work, and active engagement.
• Continue personal spiritual development and prepare for higher responsibilities.

3. Inatasan (Ordained Clergy and Shrine Officer)

Definition: An ordained spiritual leader who has completed the required ministerial training and holds an official role within the Temple.
Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead rituals, ceremonies, and spiritual education within the Temple.
• Provide pastoral care, healing, and guidance to members and the wider community.
• Uphold the sacred laws and traditions of the Temple with integrity and devotion.
• Mentor Nabansagan members and oversee their spiritual growth.
• Represent the Temple in interfaith, cultural, and community engagements.

4. Kaagapay (Honorary Member or Ally of the Temple)

Definition: A recognized ally or honorary member who supports the Temple’s mission and values, even if not formally initiated or ordained.
Duties and Responsibilities:

• May be invited to participate in special events, consultations, or advisory roles.
• Promote the Temple’s teachings and values in their own circles and communities.
• Offer support in administrative, educational, or ritual functions as needed.
• Serve as a bridge between the Temple and other organizations, traditions, or communities.
• Uphold the spirit of unity, respect, and collaboration within the Temple.

SECTION 2. Financial Obligations of Members

To sustain the spiritual mission, operations, and community services of Templong Anituhan, all members are encouraged to contribute through membership dues, offerings, and voluntary support. These financial obligations are considered sacred acts of stewardship and devotion.

1. Pithaya (Seeker)

• No mandatory dues.
• May offer voluntary donations during rituals or events.
• Encouraged to contribute as part of their spiritual discernment.

2. Nabansagan (Named Member)

Only those who have demonstrated spiritual maturity, doctrinal understanding, and ministerial readiness may be considered for ordination.

• Subject to regular membership dues as determined by the Temple Council through Pledge.
• Expected to contribute to special projects, rituals, and community outreach.
• May participate in fundraising and temple maintenance efforts.

3. Inatasan (Ordained Clergy and Shrine Officer)

• Required to fulfill higher financial responsibilities in support of temple operations and ministerial functions.
• May be assigned stewardship over specific funds or resources.
• Expected to lead by example in generosity and resource management.

4. Kaagapay (Honorary Member or Ally)

• Not subject to mandatory dues.
• May offer voluntary financial support or sponsorships for temple programs, education, or outreach.
• Encouraged to assist in fundraising, partnerships, and resource mobilization.

General Guidelines

• Membership dues shall be set annually by the Temple Council and communicated to all members.
• Financial contributions may be made in cash, kind, or service, depending on the member’s capacity.
• All funds shall be managed transparently and used solely for the advancement of the Temple’s spiritual and community mission.

ARTICLE V. PLEDGES AND FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTION

Section 1: Nature of Pledges

A pledge is a voluntary financial commitment made by a member or supporter to uphold the spiritual mission and operational needs of Templong Anituhan. It is considered a sacred offering and an act of devotion.

Section 2: Amount of Pledge

• There is no fixed amount required for a pledge unless otherwise determined by the Temple Council for specific campaigns or projects.
• Members are encouraged to pledge according to their capacity, guided by the principles of generosity, sincerity, and spiritual responsibility.
• The Temple may suggest recommended pledge amounts for transparency and planning purposes, but these remain voluntary.

Section 3: Use of Pledges

• All pledged contributions shall be used for the advancement of the Temple’s mission, including but not limited to:
  • Ritual and ceremonial needs
  • Educational programs
  • Shrine maintenance and development
  • Community outreach and healing services

Section 4: Recording and Acknowledgment

• All pledges shall be recorded by the Temple Treasurer or designated officer.
• Contributors may receive a Certificate of Pledge or acknowledgment as a sign of gratitude and spiritual blessing.

ARTICLE VI. BOARD OF TRUSTEES & TEMPLE OFFICERS

Section 1. BOARD OF TRUSTEES

1. Composition of the Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees of Templong Anituhan shall be composed of three (3) members who shall serve as the governing body of the Temple. The Trustees shall be responsible for the spiritual, administrative, and relational affairs of the Temple, in accordance with its mission and vision.
2. Designation of Trustees. The following individuals shall serve as the initial Trustees of the Temple:
   • Rev. Rolando G. Comon D.D.Min. IFS IFM – Chief Priest / Chairman of the Board
     Responsible for overseeing the spiritual direction, doctrinal integrity, and overall leadership of the Temple.
   • Rev. Alvin L. Sentin D.D.Min. IFS IFM– Director on Local Community Relations / Co-Trustee
     Responsible for coordinating and strengthening relationships with local communities, organizations, and stakeholders.
   • Rev. Maria M. Haswell D.D.Min. IFS IFM– Director on International Affairs Relations / Co-TrusteeResponsible for managing international partnerships, outreach, and representation of the Temple in global forums.
3. Perpetual Tenure the Above-named Trustees shall hold office in perpetuity, unless they voluntarily resign, become incapacitated, or are removed for cause in accordance with the internal disciplinary procedures of the Temple. Any vacancy shall be filled by appointment of the remaining Trustees, subject to ratification by the general membership.
4. In the event of a vacancy in the Board of Trustees, the replacement shall be selected from among the ordained clergy of the Temple (Inatasan) who are also serving as Temple Officers, ensuring continuity of leadership and alignment with the Temple’s spiritual mission. The appointment shall be made by the remaining Trustees and ratified by the general membership.

SECTION 2 TEMPLE OFFICERS. The Temple Officers shall consist of the ordained clergy of Templong Anituhan who have successfully completed the following educational and ministerial requirements:

1. The Aghamic Divinity and Ministry Course, which provides foundational knowledge and spiritual formation in the indigenous teachings and practices of the Temple;
2. A Master’s Degree in Ministry, signifying advanced theological and ministerial competence;
3. A Doctorate Degree in Divinity and Ministry, representing the highest level of spiritual leadership, academic achievement, and commitment to the Temple’s mission.

These Temple Officers shall serve as spiritual leaders, educators, and administrators of the Temple, and may be considered for appointment to the Board of Trustees in the event of a vacancy.

SECTION 3. Authority to Ordain Clergy

The authority to ordain clergy within Templong Anituhan is a sacred responsibility and is exclusively bestowed upon Inatasan who have attained the Doctorate Degree in Divinity and Ministry (D.D.Min.) through the Temple’s religious education program.

The ordained clergy shall be recognized as Inatasan, empowered to lead rituals, provide spiritual guidance, and represent the Temple in official capacities.

Ordination must be approved by the Board of Trustees to ensure alignment with the Temple’s spiritual standards, ethical values, and ministerial integrity.

ARTICLE VI. TEMPLE RELIGIOUS EDUCATION PROGRAM

SECTION 2. AGHAMIC DIVINITY AND MINISTRY CLASS is hereby established as the official ecclesiastical education program of Templong Anituhan. This course serves as the temple’s equivalent to a bachelor’s degree program, focusing on spiritual formation and ministerial preparation. It is designed for Nabansagan members who seek ordination as clergy or priests within the temple.

Unlike academic programs, the Aghamic Divinity Class is ecclesiastical in nature and composed of a comprehensive study of the following subjects:

• Introduction to Divinity
• Introduction to Theism
• Introduction to Theology
• History of Religion in the Philippines
• Introduction to Ministry

Upon successful completion of the course program, the Nabansagan member will be elevated to the rank of Lakan or Dayang.

SECTION 3. HILOT BINABAYLAN PROGRAM (INDIGENOUS FILIPINO MEDICINE)

The Hilot Binabaylan Program is hereby established as the official Master’s Degree in Ministry program of Templong Anituhan, specializing in Indigenous Filipino Medicine and Spiritual Healing. This advanced ecclesiastical course is designed for ordained clergy who seek deeper mastery in the sacred arts of Hilot, Binabaylan healing, and ancestral wellness practices.

Rooted in the traditions of Luntiang Aghama and the spiritual teachings of the temple, the Hilot Binabaylan Program integrates holistic healing, ritual medicine, and spiritual diagnostics. It prepares ministers to serve as community healers, spiritual counselors, and custodians of indigenous wisdom.

The program includes advanced study in:
– Hilot diagnostics and therapeutic techniques
– Binabaylan rituals and ancestral communication
– Sacred anatomy and the Seven Souls of a person
– Creation and stewardship of healing spaces such as the Dambana ng Ginhawa
– Ethics and spiritual discernment in healing ministry

Upon successful completion of the Hilot Binabaylan Program, graduates are recognized as Master Healers and Spiritual Ministers, empowered to lead healing ceremonies, mentor future clergy, and uphold the sacred traditions of Indigenous Filipino Medicine within the temple community.

Graduates will also receive the rank of Lakan or Dayang before their name and the suffix M.Min IFM, indicating they hold a Master’s Degree in Ministry specializing in Indigenous Filipino Medicine.

SECTION 4. SIADTALA INITIATIONS–Master’s Degree in Ministry

The Siadtala Initiation is the official Master’s Degree Program in Ministry of Templong Anituhan, developed by Lakay Magbaya Aghama. It is an oracular and mystical training that uses Baybayin, the ancient Filipino writing script, as a sacred medium to channel divine messages from the Diwata, Engkanto, Anito, and even the living souls. Through this sacred script, initiates learn to receive and interpret spiritual guidance, deepening their connection to the unseen realms and ancestral wisdom.

The program unfolds in four progressive levels of study:

1. Baybayin Mystic Attunement – The foundational level where initiates are attuned to the mystical energies of Baybayin and begin their journey of spiritual sensitivity.
2. Sibulan Initiation – A deeper immersion into the sacred practices and rituals that awaken the inner oracle.
3. Adlaw Initiation – A solar-centered initiation that aligns the initiate with the divine light and wisdom of the cosmos.
4. Tala Initiation – The culminating level that connects the initiate to the celestial guidance of the stars and the divine feminine energy of Tala.

Upon successful completion of all four levels, initiates are conferred the rank of Lakan (for males) or Dayang (for females). This recognition affirms their role as Spiritual Advisers of Bahay SiAdtala Binabaylan Inc., the Ministerial Center of Templong Anituhan. As spiritual advisers, they are entrusted with the sacred duty of guiding others in their spiritual path, preserving indigenous wisdom, and serving the community with compassion and integrity.

Graduates of this program may also use the suffix M.Min. IFS, signifying Master in Ministry specializing in Indigenous Filipino Spirituality. This credential affirms their advanced spiritual education and readiness to serve as clergy within the Indigenous Filipino Faith tradition.

The Siadtala Initiation serves as a vital step in the spiritual formation of clergy and is a prerequisite for those who wish to pursue the Doctorate Degree in Divinity and Ministry, especially for individuals seeking to establish a Ministerial Center as a chapter of Templong Anituhan in their local area.

SECTION 5. DOCTORATE DEGREE IN DIVINITY AND MINISTRY COURSE

The Doctorate Degree in Divinity and Ministry is a non-academic and ecclesiastical credentialing program offered by Templong Anituhan as part of its Continuing Religious Education Program. This advanced spiritual formation is designed for individuals who have successfully completed the Aghamic Divinity and Ministry Course and the Master’s Degree in Ministry through the Hilot Binabaylan Training. and/or through SiAdTala Initiations,

This doctorate program is rooted in the sacred traditions, spiritual wisdom, and ministerial practices of the Filipino Indigenous Faith. It affirms the spiritual maturity, leadership, and dedication of the initiate to serve as a bearer of ancestral knowledge and divine guidance.

Importantly, this program also serves as a requirement for individuals who wish to establish a Ministerial Center as a chapter of Templong Anituhan in their local area. By completing this program, they are empowered to lead, teach, and minister within their communities under the spiritual authority and guidance of the Temple.

Graduates of this program may pursue one of the following spiritual paths:

• Indigenous Filipino Medicine (IFM) – for individuals of Filipino lineage who seek to deepen their practice in traditional healing arts rooted in the cultural and spiritual heritage of the Philippines.
• Indigenous Folk Medicine (IFM) – for non-Filipino individuals who are called to the universal principles of ancestral healing and wish to integrate these practices within their own cultural context.
• Indigenous Filipino Spirituality (IFS) – for Filipino practitioners who are called to embody and teach the sacred cosmology, rituals, and theology of the Diwata, Anito, and Engkanto.
• Indigenous Folk Spirituality (IFS) – for non-Filipino practitioners who resonate with the spiritual essence of indigenous traditions and seek to serve as bridges between cultures through respectful and authentic spiritual ministry.

This doctorate program is a sacred covenant between the initiate and the Divine, affirming their role as a Doctor of Divinity and Ministry—a spiritual elder, healer, and teacher within the sacred circle of Templong Anituhan.of Templong Anituhan.

ARTICLE VII. MINISTERIAL CENTER

Section 1: Definition and Purpose

A Ministerial Center is a recognized local chapter of Templong Anituhan, established to serve as a spiritual, educational, and administrative hub within a specific geographic area. It functions under the authority and guidance of the Temple and upholds its teachings, rituals, and mission.

The purpose of a Ministerial Center is to:

• Provide a sacred space for worship, rituals, and spiritual gatherings.
• Offer religious education and training in Aghamic Divinity, Hilot Binabaylan, and Indigenous Filipino Spirituality.
• Serve the community through healing, outreach, and pastoral care.
• Promote the values and teachings of Templong Anituhan in local contexts.
• Facilitate the ordination and development of clergy and spiritual advisers.

Section 2: Establishment Requirements

To establish a Ministerial Center, the following requirements must be met:

• The founder must be a graduate of the Doctorate Degree in Divinity and Ministry from Templong Anituhan.
• The proposed center must align with the spiritual, cultural, and ethical standards of the Temple.
• A formal application must be submitted to the Temple Council for approval.
• The center must designate a Shrine Officer or Inatasan to oversee its operations and spiritual activities.

Section 3: Naming Conventions

Individuals who apply to establish a Ministerial Center may choose from the following naming options:

• Retain the name “Templong Anituhan” and add their location as a chapter designation.
  Example: Templong Anituhan – San Ramon, California Chapter
• Create a new name for their center while acknowledging its affiliation.
  Example: Kapwa Wellness – A Templong Anituhan Chapter in San Ramon, California
• Establish a new temple dedicated to a specific Diwata, under the authority of Templong Anituhan.
  Example: Templo ni Mayari – A Chapter of Templong Anituhan in Taguig
• Use the term “Bahay” instead of “Templo” to reflect a more intimate or community-based spiritual space.
  Example: Bahay Siadtala – A Ministerial Center of Templong Anituhan

All naming proposals must be submitted for review and approval by the Temple Council to ensure alignment with the Temple’s spiritual identity and mission.

Section 4: Duties and Responsibilities

Ministerial Centers are responsible for:

• Conducting regular rituals, ceremonies, and spiritual services.
• Maintaining records of membership, ordinations, and spiritual activities.
• Hosting educational programs and training for seekers, members, and clergy.
• Supporting the Temple’s initiatives, including festivals, healing missions, and interfaith engagements.
• Ensuring financial transparency and stewardship of resources.

Section 5: Oversight and Affiliation

• All Ministerial Centers remain under the spiritual and administrative oversight of Templong Anituhan.
• Centers must submit annual reports and participate in temple-wide assemblies and consultations.
• The Temple reserves the right to review, guide, or revoke the status of any center that fails to uphold its mission and standards.

ARTICLE VIII. MANDATORY REPORTING OF LOCAL CHAPTERS

Section 1: Purpose and Accountability

To ensure transparency, spiritual integrity, and organizational alignment, all Ministerial Centers, Temples, Shrines, and Bahay Chapters affiliated with Templong Anituhan are required to submit regular reports to the Temple Administration. This reporting system affirms the unity of all chapters under one sacred mission and enables the Board of Trustees to provide guidance, support, and oversight.

Section 2: Reporting Authority

• The responsibility of reporting falls upon the Temple Administrator, Shrine Officer, or Inatasan assigned to lead the local chapter.
• Reports must be submitted to the Board of Trustees or designated administrative office of Templong Anituhan.

Section 3: Frequency and Format

• Reports shall be submitted quarterly, with an annual summary due at the end of each calendar year.
• The format of the report shall include:
  • Spiritual Activities: Rituals conducted, initiations, ordinations, healing services, and educational programs.
  • Membership Updates: New initiates, ordained clergy, and changes in membership status.
  • Financial Summary: Offerings received, expenses incurred, and pledges fulfilled.
  • Community Engagement: Outreach programs, partnerships, and interfaith activities.
  • Challenges and Needs: Any concerns, requests for support, or recommendations for improvement.

Section 4: Naming and Identification

• Each chapter must clearly identify itself in all reports using one of the approved naming conventions:
  • Templong Anituhan [Location] Chapter
    e.g., Templong Anituhan – San Ramon, California Chapter
  • [New Name] – A Templong Anituhan Chapter in [Location]
    e.g., Kapwa Wellness – A Templong Anituhan Chapter in San Ramon, California
  • Templo ni [Diwata] – A Chapter of Templong Anituhan in [Location]
    e.g., Templo ni Mayari – A Chapter of Templong Anituhan in Taguig
  • Bahay [Spiritual Name] – A Ministerial Center of Templong Anituhan
    e.g., Bahay Siadtala – A Ministerial Center of Templong Anituhan

Section 5: Compliance and Review

• Failure to submit reports may result in administrative review, temporary suspension of chapter privileges, or revocation of affiliation.
• The Board of Trustees shall review all reports and may issue feedback, commendations, or directives to ensure alignment with the Temple’s mission.

IX. MEMBERSHIP IN GOOD STANDING

Section 1: Definition

A member in good standing is one who actively upholds the spiritual, ethical, and communal responsibilities of Templong Anituhan. This status reflects a member’s commitment to the Temple’s mission, teachings, and harmonious participation in its sacred life.

Section 2: Criteria for Good Standing

To be considered in good standing, a member must:

• Participate regularly in temple rituals, gatherings, and spiritual activities.
• Uphold the values, teachings, and ethical standards of Templong Anituhan.
• Fulfill financial obligations such as membership dues, pledges, or offerings.
• Maintain respectful conduct toward fellow members, clergy, and temple officers.
• Support the temple’s mission through service, advocacy, or community engagement.

Section 3: Review and Recognition

• The status of good standing shall be reviewed periodically by the Temple Council or designated officers.
• Members in good standing may be eligible for:
  • Participation in sacred rituals and leadership roles.
  • Nomination or appointment to temple offices.
  • Endorsement for ordination or ministerial advancement.
  • Representation in temple assemblies and decision-making processes.

Section 4: Loss of Good Standing

A member may experience a change in membership status if they:

• Repeatedly neglect spiritual or financial responsibilities.
• Engage in conduct that disrupts temple harmony or violates sacred ethics.
• Fail to comply with temple by-laws or directives from the Board of Trustees.

Such changes shall be handled through a restorative review process, guided by compassion, fairness, and spiritual discernment. The goal is not punishment, but reconciliation and renewal.

Section 5: Restoration to Good Standing

• Members may be restored to good standing upon completion of a spiritual reassessment, fulfillment of obligations, or reconciliation with the community.
• The process shall be overseen by the Temple Elders or Board of Trustees, with emphasis on healing, growth, and reintegration.

X. OTHER PROVISIONS

Section 1: Separability Clause

If any provision of these by-laws is declared invalid, illegal, or unenforceable by a competent authority, such invalidity shall not affect the remaining provisions, which shall continue in full force and effect.

Section 2: Amendments

These by-laws may be amended by the Board of Trustees with the approval of the general membership, provided that such amendments are consistent with the spiritual mission and values of Templong Anituhan.

Section 3: Interpretation of Provisions

In case of ambiguity or conflict in interpretation, the Board of Trustees shall have the authority to clarify and resolve the matter in accordance with the Temple’s spiritual principles and traditions.

Section 4: Recognition of Spiritual Titles and Credentials

All spiritual titles, ranks, and ministerial credentials conferred by Templong Anituhan shall be recognized within its affiliated chapters and ministerial centers, subject to verification and approval by the Temple Council.

Section 5: Dissolution Clause

In the event of the dissolution of Templong Anituhan, all remaining assets shall be transferred to a recognized Indigenous spiritual organization or charitable institution aligned with its mission, as determined by the Board of Trustees.

Section 6: Non-Profit Status

Templong Anituhan operates as a religious and spiritual organization with a non-profit status. All income, donations, and resources shall be used solely for the advancement of its spiritual mission, community service, education, and cultural preservation. No part of the Temple’s earnings shall benefit any individual member, officer, or trustee, except for reasonable compensation for services rendered.

Section 7: Conflict Resolution

Any disputes or conflicts arising within the Temple or among its members shall be resolved through a process of spiritual discernment, dialogue, and reconciliation. The Board of Trustees shall appoint a panel of elders or mediators to facilitate resolution in accordance with the Temple’s values of harmony, compassion, and justice. Legal action shall be considered only as a last resort after all internal remedies have been exhausted.

Section 8: Intellectual Property of Teachings and Rituals

All teachings, rituals, symbols, and spiritual materials developed, preserved, or transmitted by Templong Anituhan—including those related to Aghamic Divinity, Hilot Binabaylan, and Indigenous Filipino Spirituality—are considered sacred intellectual property of the Temple.

• These may not be reproduced, published, or distributed without written permission from the Board of Trustees.
• Authorized use must maintain the integrity, context, and sacredness of the materials.
• Any adaptation or translation must be reviewed and approved to ensure alignment with the Temple’s spiritual tradition.

ARTICLE XI. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY AND USAGE AGREEMENT

Section 1: Copyright Ownership

All spiritual teachings, rituals, symbols, texts, and educational materials developed, preserved, or transmitted by Templong Anituhan, including those related to Aghamic Divinity, Hilot Binabaylan, and Indigenous Filipino Spirituality, are considered sacred intellectual property of the Temple.

© Templong Anituhan. All rights reserved.

No part of these materials may be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, or adapted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the Board of Trustees of Templong Anituhan, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews or educational use with proper attribution.

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Section 2: Usage Agreement

2.1 Authorized Use

• Materials may be used for personal spiritual growth, temple-based education, and approved ministerial functions.
• Use must maintain the integrity, sacredness, and original context of the teachings.

2.2 Prohibited Use

• Unauthorized reproduction, commercialization, or modification of materials is strictly prohibited.
• Use of materials outside the spiritual framework of Templong Anituhan without approval is not permitted.

2.3 Attribution

• Proper acknowledgment must be given to Templong Anituhan when quoting or referencing its teachings.
• Any adapted use must clearly state its origin and be approved by the Temple Council.

2.4 Licensing and Permission

• Individuals or chapters seeking to use materials for public teaching, publication, or interfaith engagement must submit a formal request to the Board of Trustees.
• Licensing agreements may be issued for approved use, subject to review and renewal.

2.5 Enforcement

• Violations of this agreement may result in withdrawal of ministerial privileges, revocation of good standing, or legal action if necessary to protect the Temple’s sacred heritage.

ARTICLE XII. FINAL PROVISION

Section 1: Omissions and Future Additions

In the event that any necessary provision, policy, or guideline has been omitted from these by-laws, the Board of Trustees shall have the authority to interpret, supplement, or amend the document in accordance with the spiritual mission and values of Templong Anituhan.
Any additions or revisions shall be presented to the general membership for affirmation and shall be recorded as official amendments.

Section 2: Spiritual Authority

These by-laws are established under the sacred guidance of the Diwata, the ancestral spirits, and the divine wisdom of Aghamic Faith. All members, officers, and affiliated chapters are bound to uphold the spirit and letter of this document with reverence, integrity, and unity.

Section 3: Effective Date

These by-laws shall take effect on August 8, 2025, upon approval and affirmation by the Board of Trustees and the general membership of Templong Anituhan.

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Signatories

Approved and signed by the Board of Trustees:

Rev. Rolando G. Comon, D.D.Min. IFS IFM
Chief Priest / Chairman of the Board
Also known as Apu Adman Aghama

Rev. Alvin L. Sentin, D.D.Min. IFS IFM
Director on Local Community Relations / Co-Trustee
Also known as Lakay Magbaya Aghama

Rev. Maria M. Haswell, D.D.Min. IFS IFM
Director on International Affairs Relations / Co-Trustee

Also known as Bae Akuma Aghama