California Freemason: In addition to belonging to five California lodges, you were just installed as the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Hawaii. First of all, congratulations. How do you have time for so much Masonry?

Gloriani Lontoc: I have been congratulated by many members on how hard I worked to get here, which I respectfully disagree with. I just enjoy being part of the fraternity and have only done what was needed or asked of me to make Freemasonry a better experience for us all. Awards and honors are just decorations. However, it is overwhelming and humbling to say the least. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would find myself in this position. I am, and always will be, struck by this honor the brethren of Hawaii have given me. Five years ago, the grand master appointed me as grand standard bearer. When I got home, my wife stopped me in the doorway and said, “Alright, what just happened?” I said, “It’s only for one year,” which is a famous Masonic phrase.

CFM: Of course, the Grand Lodges of California and Hawaii aren’t what you would call strangers.

GL: Yes, the Grand Lodge of California established the Grand Lodge of Hawaii. The connection dates back to 1852, when Hawaiian Lodge received its charter from the Grand Lodge of California, and all Hawaiian lodges were part of that jurisdiction until 1989, when the Grand Lodge of Hawaii was officially established. That history is fascinating and really reflects the bonds of Freemasonry across the Pacific.

CFM: So how many lodges in California and elsewhere are you now involved with?

GL: In San Diego, I’m a life member of South West № 283, Lemon Grove № 736, and East San Diego № 561. I’m also a three-time past master of Chula Vista № 626 and a charter member of MW Manuel L. Quezon Lodge № 874. In Hawaii, I’m a past master of Leeward Lodge and Schofield Lodge and a member of Ko‘olau Lodge. I was first raised at Magdiwang № 238 under the Grand Lodge of the Philippines. I’m also an honorary member of Nilad № 12 in Manila. Being a member of five lodges in California keeps me involved in a lot of local projects and programs in the San Diego area like Masons4Mitts.

CFM: How did you get involved with Freemasonry in California?

GL: I first discovered Freemasonry through the Order of DeMolay in 1977. I was a charter member of the General Emilio Aguinaldo chapter in the Philippines. I moved to Hawaii in 1998, and then in 2010 I got a job offer in San Diego, where I found the Kimball chapter of DeMolay in National City. South West № 283 was their sponsoring body, so I affiliated to get involved with the chapter.

CFM: What are your goals as grand master for the coming year?

GL: At the Grand Lodge of Hawaii, our mission was and always is to grow, assist our constituent lodges in their administration and management, ensure the observance of our ancient customs, landmarks, and ritual, and promote Masonic participation in community activities, especially charitable work.

CFM: What do you appreciate the most about your time as a Mason?

GL: Through Freemasonry, I have been able to connect some of the dots about this small world by meeting men of all countries, sects, and opinions, and knowing that we all share some common values. A few of those meetings changed my life forever. Being a member of multiple lodges in multiple jurisdictions, it’s the brotherhood that keeps me engaged. The strength of Freemasonry is the loyalty Masons have to each other.

CFM: What’s your pitch to someone who’s interested in Masonry but doesn’t know much about it?

GL: There are many reasons people become Masons—brotherhood, a sense of structure, or a desire to get involved in the community. Friendships made through Masonry last a lifetime.

CFM: Any final words of wisdom?

GL: Get involved with your lodge! Ask more questions, take time to research and understand the traditions and appreciate why they are important. Enjoy the journey. Freemasonry is local and personal, and there is no way to do it well except at your lodge.