12/04/2026
A Distinguished Visit:
Illustrious Brother Diederik Mechiels 33° at the Rizal Masonic Temple. It is with immense honor and fraternal joy that the Gran Logia Soberana del Archipielago Filipino extends its warmest welcome to Illustrious Brother Diederik Mechiels 33°, the esteemed 2nd Lieutenant Grand Commander of the Souverain Collège du Rite Écossais pour la Belgique. This significant visit to the Rizal Masonic Temple in Manila marks a profound moment in the strengthening of international Masonic ties and the shared pursuit of Masonic ideals.
Illustrious Brother Diederik Mechiels 33°:
A Beacon of Scottish Rite Freemasonry. Illustrious Brother Diederik Mechiels holds the prestigious 33rd Degree, signifying his status as a Sovereign Grand Inspector General within the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite (AASR). His role as 2nd Lieutenant Grand Commander of the Souverain Collège du Rite Écossais pour la Belgique underscores his leadership and dedication to the principles of Freemasonry. The Souverain Collège, established in 1962, stands as a prominent independent Masonic body in Belgium, committed to the philosophical and initiatory traditions of the Scottish Rite, particularly within the Liberal or Adogmatic tradition that champions freedom of conscience and human rights.
The Rizal Masonic Temple:
A Symbol of Filipino Masonic HeritageThe historic Rizal Masonic Temple, located at 1316 Cavite Street, Tondo, Manila, serves as the revered home of the Gran Logia Soberana del Archipielago Filipino. This temple is not merely a structure but a profound symbol of Filipino Liberal Masonry, bearing the name of the Philippines' national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. A Mason himself, Dr. Rizal's unwavering commitment to liberty, equality, and fraternity deeply resonates with the core tenets of the Craft. The temple's recent reconsecration and rededication further highlight the vibrant and active Masonic community it fosters, under the leadership of the current Grand Master, M.W. John Ritchie “Lestat” Jongco 33°.
A Confluence of Fraternal Spirit
This distinguished visit by Illustrious Brother Mechiels represents a vital confluence of fraternal spirit, bridging the Masonic traditions of Belgium and the Philippines. It serves as a testament to the universal nature of Freemasonry, where brothers from diverse backgrounds unite under shared principles and a common commitment to the betterment of humanity. Such exchanges are instrumental in fostering mutual understanding, strengthening international Masonic bonds, and perpetuating the enduring legacy of the Ancient and Accepted Scottish Rite across the globe.
References:
[1] Souverain Collège du Rite Écossais pour la Belgique. Official Website. Available at: https://ritecos.com/
[2] Gran Logia Soberana del Archipielago Filipino. Official Website. Available at: https://granlogiasoberanaph.com/
[3] Gran Logia Soberana del Archipielago Filipino. page. Available at: https://www.facebook.com/soberanamasonerya/
