The Partner Newspaper

Rev. Fr. Romeo “Butch” Olivares, CICM, was a missionary whose life was defined by availability, humility, and a deep commitment to the Gospel. A priest for over 51 years, he was a “teacher per excellence” and a gentle pastor who bridged cultures from the Philippines to the United States and Nigeria.

Early Life and Consecration

Born on January 31, 1948, Fr. Butch entered the Congregatio Immaculati Cordis Mariae (CICM) as a young man, professing his first vows on June 29, 1969. He was ordained to the priesthood on March 13, 1974.

For his 50th Sacerdotal Anniversary in 2024, he chose the words of Mary as his guiding theme: “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord.” These words were the golden thread woven through his five decades of ministry—a life shaped not by personal ambition, but by God’s faithful grace.

A Missionary Without Borders

Fr. Butch’s priesthood was marked by a tireless willingness to go wherever he was needed:

• The Formator: Shortly after ordination, he spent four years shaping future priests at the Diocesan Seminary of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in San Fernando, La Union, and later at Maryhurst CICM Mission Seminary in Baguio.
• The Global Servant: His journey took him to Paco Catholic Church in Manila, to Berkeley, California, and across various missions in the United States.

The Nigerian Mission: A Lasting Legacy

One of the most significant chapters of his life was his seven-year mission in Nigeria. As one of the early CICM Confreres to arrive Ijebu-Ode Diocese, he was instrumental in establishing the Ogbere Deanery and served faithfully at St. Mary Catholic Parish, Ogbere.

His impact there was both spiritual and practical, as evidenced by those who served alongside him. Mr. Michael Agbolade, a “mission boy” at the time who was interviewed by The Partner Newspaper, shared a touching tribute:

“Fr. Butch Olivares the great artist and designer is gone. He was one of the first five CICM priests to settle in Ogbere when Ogbere parish was carved out of Esure parish. He was the one in charge of the J4 axis and taught me the rudiments of sign writing like the cutting of stencils and the usage of roneo machine and how to use typewriter. A teacher per excellence. He was the one that planted all the flowers in Ogbere parish. May his soul find eternal rest in the bosom of his Creator.”

An Authentic Witness

Fr. Butch was fondly remembered not for a display of flawlessness, but for his authenticity. He was a man of humor and warmth, finding God in simple joys—good food, laughter, and friendship. He taught those around him that holiness is not about never falling, but about always rising again through mercy.

As his health declined in later years, particularly as he battled a stroke, he remained a testament to the fact that “it pays to serve the Lord.”

Final Homecoming

In 2023, Fr. Butch returned to Home Sweet Home in Baguio City. On Sunday, December 28, 2025, the Feast of the Holy Family, he finished his earthly race at 3:45 PM at Notre Dame de Chartres Hospital. His passing came just five days after his contemporary, Baba Manu, left this world.

Today, as he joins the host of angels in eternal praise, we celebrate a life poured out in service. Like the Magnificat he cherished, his soul truly proclaimed the greatness of the Lord.