BAGUIO CITY – A Regional Trial Court in Baguio City has convicted Fr. Mark Batolne, a Catholic priest and former manager of a church-run radio station, of three counts of rape against a 16-year-old female scholar under the Diocese of Baguio’s care. Judge Modesto Bahul Jr. of Branch 2 (Family Court) handed down the sentence on Thursday, December 18, 2025, imposing 20 to 40 years imprisonment per count—effectively a life term—following a trial that highlighted abuse of authority and intimidation.
The victim, a church scholar residing at the Bishop’s Residence near Baguio Cathedral, testified that Batolne raped her six times in March 2023, including assaults on March 8 and 12 where he allegedly carried a knife. She performed chores (cooking and cleaning) at the residence while attending school. The court found her testimony “credible and consistent,” rejecting Batolne’s denial and alibi of being preoccupied with diocesan duties.
Batolne, who also served as finance administrator for the diocese and general manager of Mountain Province Broadcasting Co. (operating DZWT radio) and Montanosa Pastoral Resources (managing Porta Vaga mall), maintained his innocence throughout the trial.
This marks a rare conviction of a clergy member for sexual abuse in the Philippines and the first major scandal for the Diocese of Baguio in recent years. The case underscores ongoing challenges in addressing abuse within the Church, despite global calls for accountability.
Sentence Snapshot:
| Charge | Counts | Penalty per Count |
|---|---|---|
| Rape | 3 | 20-40 years imprisonment |