Fr. Rolly Buasen is an Igorot cowboy priest who rides his horse for up to six hours each week to serve remote mountain communities in Itogon, Benguet. He conducts at least five masses in three different chapels, even though he didn't like riding horses at first.
Orphaned at a young age, he grew up in a rectory. He started as a sacristan when he was 15 years old and was baptized at the same age. He developed and deepened his love for serving people by bringing them hope and inspiration, which led him to study Philosophy and Theology in the seminary.
After graduating from the seminary, Fr. Rolly was assigned to a remote mountain community in Itogon. The roads were impassable by car, so he had to ride his horse to get to the chapels. He didn't like riding horses at first, but he eventually came to love it.
"At first, I didn't like riding horses. But then I realized that it was a good hobby. I appreciate the connection you have with the horse. It's therapeutic. It's like a pet," Fr. Rolly said in an interview.
Fr. Rolly now enjoys riding his horse and sees it as a way to connect with the people he serves. He believes that it is important to balance cultural practices with faith, and he often uses his horse to travel to remote villages to conduct masses and other religious activities.
Fr. Rolly is also a passionate advocate for the poor and marginalized. He is often called upon to mediate disputes and provide spiritual guidance. He is also a tireless worker who is always willing to help others.
In addition to his ministry, Fr. Rolly is also promoting cultural inculturation in the community. He believes that it is important for people to be able to practice their culture and faith together, and he is working to do this by promoting horse riding race activities to encourage the youths and rekindle the old culture. He is also promoting horseback riding for tourists, so they can enjoy the scenic view of the mountains taking the route from Salapsap Dalupirip to Mt. Pigingan, one of the highest mountains in Itogon and the first tourist attraction.
Fr. Rolly is a true inspiration. He is a cowboy priest who is dedicated to serving God and his people. He is a role model for young people and shows us that it is possible to follow your dreams and make a difference in the world.
