Liloan church closed due to ‘grave act of desecration’

Local

The Parish Church of San Fernando Rey in Liloan town, northern Cebu, now stands closed, not for renovation but for reparation.

This after a woman was found dead inside the sacred space on Friday morning, Oct. 24.

The Archdiocese of Cebu confirmed the closure, describing the incident as an act of desecration.

Archbishop Alberto Uy expressed grief and outrage over the violence that occurred inside the church, calling it “a grave act of desecration committed within a sacred place.”

“We unite in prayer for the victim’s family as we condemn in the strongest terms this act of violence committed within the very house of God,” Uy said.

After examining CCTV footage and other evidence, Church authorities confirmed that the assault took place inside the parish.

Under Canon 1211 of the Code of Canon Law, the site is now deemed desecrated because of the grave injury inflicted within its walls.

Uy ordered the suspension of all public acts of divine worship in the parish until a penitential rite is performed to restore the church’s sanctity.

“The exercise of divine worship is forbidden there until the injury has been repaired,” he stated.

The Archbishop urged parishioners to respond with prayer and compassion, rather than anger, as the community processes the tragedy.

Police said the victim, believed to be about 30 years old, was found lying near the rearmost pew around 9 a.m. after church staff heard a scream.

Witnesses saw a man in black running out of the church moments before the discovery.

The woman sustained visible head wounds and abrasions on her neck and was bleeding from the nose.

She was rushed to the Danao City District Hospital but was declared dead on arrival by Dr. Francisco dela Cuesta.

Investigators confirmed the cause of death as head and neck injuries and are working to identify both the victim and the suspect.

CCTV footage is being reviewed for additional leads.

Rev. Fr. Joseph Larida, moderator of the team of pastors at San Fernando El Rey Parish, said the parish is cooperating fully with authorities.

All Masses and parish activities will temporarily be held at the Parish Pastoral Center.

“We ask for your understanding and continued cooperation during this time. Let us also join together in prayer for peace, healing, and for all those affected by this distressing event,” Larida said.(MyTVCebu)