In a startling event at San Isidro Parish in Binalbagan, Negros Occidental, a man on a tricycle invaded the church during a morning Holy Mass on April 3, 2024, causing extensive damage. The tricycle smashed into pews and the altar, and the man proceeded to knock down religious statues, including that of the church’s patron saint, leading to their destruction.
Authorities apprehended the individual immediately following the incident. According to Lieutenant Glen Portunes, the deputy chief of the local police, the suspect claimed to have been compelled by voices to carry out the destruction, which included the image of Jesus Christ.
The Diocese of Kabankalan responded with a statement highlighting the deep emotional and spiritual impact on the congregation, emphasizing that the mental and emotional trauma inflicted on the faithful surpassed the physical damage. The diocese stressed the importance of addressing the congregation’s distress, beyond merely repairing the physical destruction.
Listed among the damaged artifacts were images of Saint Joseph, San Isidro Labrador, the Immaculate Conception, two angels, and the Crucifix, with the Tabernacle also reported as disfigured.
The local government has pledged to prevent such incidents in the future, and the suspect is currently in custody, facing charges of malicious mischief or alarm and scandal. Restoration efforts are underway at the church, which remains temporarily closed.
This unsettling event has not only caused material damage but also struck a deep chord within the community, calling for both restoration and healing in its aftermath.