The Archdiocese of Cebu expresses deep sorrow and grave concern over the crime committed inside the Parish Church of San Fernando Rey, Liloan on October 24, 2025. 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.
According to Canon 1211 of the Code of Canon Law, “A sacred place is desecrated when it suffers grave injury through acts done in it which are seriously disrespectful and give scandal to the faithful.
Consequently, the exercise of divine worship is forbidden there until the injury has been repaired by a penitential rite determined by the Ordinary according to the liturgical books.”
After a preliminary review of the incident and the available evidence, including CCTV footage confirming that the assault took place inside the church itself, it is judged that the sacred place has indeed been desecrated through an act of grave violence, which has caused profound scandal and pain among the faithful of Liloan and beyond.
In accordance with the same canon, and mindful also of Canon 1210, which commands that “only those things which serve to exercise or promote worship, piety, and religion are permitted in a sacred place,” I, as the Archbishop of Cebu, decree the temporary closure of the Parish Church of San Fernando Rey, Liloan. All public acts of divine worship are to be suspended until proper canonical procedures are completed to ensure the reparation of the desecration and the restoration of the church’s dignity as a house of prayer and peace.
During this period, I, in consultation with the parish clergy and the Chancery, will determine the rite of reparation prescribed by the liturgical books, after which divine worship may once more be licitly celebrated in the said church.
I ask the faithful to respond to this tragedy not with anger, but with prayer, compassion, and solidarity— especially for the victim and her family. Let us all reaffirm our respect for every human person and for the sanctity of our sacred spaces, which are meant to be places of refuge, reverence, and healing.
May the Lord, rich in mercy and justice, purify and restore His temple and bring peace to all who grieve.
Given in Cebu City, this 24th of October, 2025.
(SGD) + Alberto S. Uy, DD
Archbishop of Cebu