The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cebu mourns the passing of Most Rev. Emilio “Boy” Layon Bataclan, D.D., Auxiliary Bishop-Emeritus of Cebu, who peacefully returned to the Father’s house on June 24, 2026. He was 85 years old.

Ordained to the priesthood in 1966, Bishop Bataclan devoted his life to pastoral ministry and evangelization. He was appointed bishop in 1990 and later served as Bishop of the Diocese of Iligan from 1995 to 2004.

After his tenure in Iligan, he returned to his home archdiocese and was appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Cebu, a role he faithfully fulfilled from 2004 until his retirement in 2015. Throughout his episcopal ministry, Bishop Bataclan was known for his approachable demeanor, pastoral zeal, and deep love for the faithful entrusted to his care.

His mortal remains now lie in state at the Knights of Columbus Hall of St. Joseph the Patriarch Parish in Mabolo, Cebu City, where the wake will be held from June 25 to July 1, 2026. A Requiem Mass will be celebrated daily at 8:00 p.m.

Priests and church groups wishing to offer Masses during the wake may coordinate through the designated contact numbers provided by the Archdiocese.

The Funeral Mass will be celebrated on July 2, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Cebu Metropolitan Cathedral.

The Archdiocese has also requested parish priests, team moderators, and chaplains to offer Masses in their respective churches for the eternal repose of Bishop Bataclan’s soul.

As the local Church mourns his passing, the faithful are invited to remember Bishop Bataclan’s life of service and pray for his eternal rest.

“Eternal rest grant unto Bishop Boy, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.”