By Glazyl Y. Masculino
BACOLOD CITY – A 39-year-old man drove a tricycle through the doors of the San Isidro Labrador Parish Church in Barangay Sto. Rosario, Binalbagan, disrupting a Holy Mass at approximately 7 a.m. yesterday.
Attendees were left in dismay as the suspect, alleged to suffer from mental illness, proceeded to dismantle and decapitate several century-old religious statues, along with damaging other church properties.
Police Major Randy Babor, the local police chief, reported the apprehension of the individual whose identity remains undisclosed pending legal actions.
Thanks to the quick response of police personnel stationed nearby, the mass could continue after a brief hiatus.
Babor also noted the damages incurred are estimated to be nearly P300,000, yet thankfully, no injuries were reported.
Upon inquiry regarding his motives, the suspect provided inconsistent statements, leaving authorities struggling to discern his intentions.
Efforts to confirm his mental health status through discussions with his family are underway, alongside investigations into the tricycle’s ownership, informed Babor.
With no previous police records, the suspect now faces potential charges including malicious mischief, alarm and scandal, or interruption of religious worship.
In the wake of the event, additional security measures will be implemented at the church to avert similar occurrences.
A subsequent Facebook post by the church lamented the destruction of sacred representations, including St. Joseph, the Patron of San Isidro Labrador, the Immaculate Conception, a Crucifix, and two angelic figures.
As the parish addresses the aftermath, it has temporarily closed its doors, saying “We will inform you of the future developments as we try to mend not just the physical damages in the sanctuary but also the internal injury and pain felt by all Catholics in Binalbagan due to this unfortunate event.”
Mayor Alejandro Mirasol voiced his profound dismay over the desecration and extended a firm commitment to preventing future violations, ensuring the safety and hallowed nature of the parish.
“I condemn the perpetrator’s actions and will ensure that such incidents are avoided in the future,” Mirasol said, as he assured the priests and personnel, and the churchgoers the safety and sanctity.
The mayor assured that the local government will fully support the renovations necessary to restore the church to its sacred state.
“While our sacred statues may have been broken, our faith remains unshaken,” he said.
