John Lawrence P. Castillo was born in Lucena City and lives in Tayabas City, Quezon. He is the eldest child of Joel and Lanie Castillo.

He completed an AB degree in Political Science at the Manuel S. Enverga University Foundation in Lucena City.

His affiliations include GoodGovPH, the national youth organization for good governance, previously as human resources core member and Deputy Director for Recruitment, and as an opinion writer for their official publication, Balangay. The Armiger also serves as a member of the social communications ministry at the Minor Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel, located in Tayabas City, Quezon.

Design and symbolism:

The color red expresses conviction and strength, while the color blue evokes loyalty and faith.

The moon and a crown of twelve stars signifies devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, under the title of Immaculate Conception, the principal patroness of the country. The balance symbolizes law and justice, referring to the Armiger’s family of politicians and lawyers, and his interest in law and politics as a Political Science student. It is also canting to his given name, Lawrence. The book represents counsel, and the quill alludes to eloquence through writing, both referring to the Armiger’s vocation as a campus journalist and writer for many years.

The sun represents Jesus as the Sun of Justice, and is also taken from the Philippine flag to denote his love of country. The boat signifies the Church, associated with “the barque of Peter, the Fisherman”. It further refers to the Armiger’s membership as a core member of GoodGovPH and an opinion writer for Balangay, whose logo resembles the traditional balangay boat. The waves represent the shores of Quezon Province, location of the Armiger’s hometown.

The motto is a loose translation of 1 Peter 4:11 – a reminder that every undertaking in life must be for the glory of Almighty God.

Blazon: Shield: Azure on a base barry wavy Azure and Argent a boat below a Philippine sun Or, on a chapé embowed Gules, to dexter a crescent surrounded by twelve mullets Or, to sinister a balance Or above a quill pen and book Argent.

Motto: Upang sa lahat ng bagay, ang Diyos ay bigyang-pugay (“That in all things, God may be glorified”)

Assumed/granting authority: Assumed, June 11, 2021. Registered, Philippine Armorial, October 16, 2021.

Image and information submitted by the Armiger.