San Carlos Diocese: 2 priests remain on leave amid abuse claims

San Carlos Diocese says 2 priests remain on leave amid abuse claims

By: - Reporter / @jownmanaloINQ
/ 02:52 PM January 30, 2025

The Diocese of San Carlos clarified on Thursday that two priests accused of sexually abusing minors remain on "administrative leave" as their cases undergo both ecclesiastical and legal review.

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MANILA, Philippines — The Diocese of San Carlos clarified on Thursday that two priests accused of sexually abusing minors remain on “administrative leave” as their cases undergo both ecclesiastical and legal review.

In a statement, the diocese emphasized that Fr. Conrado Mantac and Fr. Aron Buenacosa are “not engaged in ministerial duties.”

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“These cases are still under ecclesiastical review by our Diocesan Safeguarding Office, and the Diocese is steadfastly committed to cooperating with civil authorities and the Philippine courts to ensure a fair and just process,” the statement read.

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The statement, signed by San Carlos City Bishop Fr. Gerardo Alminaza, denied claims that the priests had been reinstated.

It likewise clarified that their participation as co-celebrants in some liturgical events “does not equate to active pastoral ministry.”

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“We want to reassure the faithful that, contrary to what is alleged, the Church is following the established protocols for the protection of minors, upholding due process for the accused, and prioritizing the safety and well-being of victims,” it added.

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The diocese reiterated its commitment to transparency, ensuring that the accused remain under strict monitoring and subject to both legal and ecclesiastical proceedings.

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“The aforesaid clergy are within the Diocese because our Church institution is committed to properly monitoring and assuring that no one escapes accountability to legal and ecclesiastical sanctions,” it said.

The diocese also encouraged individuals with relevant information to report any abuse cases and assured support for affected individuals.

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“We also wish to offer support to anyone who may have been affected by these allegations,” it said, providing contact details for reporting abuse.

READ: Priests in PH accused of sex abuse still serving, says group

A Reuters report published Thursday highlighted concerns from BishopAccountability.org, a U.S.-based group tracking clergy abuse.

The organization reported that 82 priests and brothers from the Philippines, or those who had served in the country, have been accused of sex abuse.

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In a news conference on Wednesday, the group’s co-director Anne Barrett Doyle said at least seven of the accused priests continue to serve in parishes across the country, with some as recently as last December 2024, Reuters reported.

TAGS: abuse, minors, priests, San Carlos

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