MANILA, March 1 -- Pope Francis has named a new bishop of the Diocese of Virac in Catanduanes province.

The Vatican announced the appointment of Fr. Luisito Occiano on Thursday. He will be the third bishop of the diocese.

Occiano, 52, from the Archdiocese of Caceres, currently serves as the rector and parish priest of the Archdiocesan Shrine and Parish of St. Joseph in San Jose, Camarines Sur.

"As I humbly accept this appointment as Bishop of Virac, I thank the Holy Father, Pope Francis for the trust. Likewise, the Archdiocese of Caceres with Archbishop Roly Tirona OCD and the clergy," Occiano said in a statement.

"I also ask for your prayers and support in my new ministry. May the Holy Spirit guide me in shepherding God's people with...