BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The Diocese of Baguio has issued an urgent advisory to all parishes and religious communities following a string of reported thefts involving sacred vessels and other liturgical items. Bishop Victor Bendico called for increased vigilance among the faithful and church personnel, noting that these incidents go beyond simple property theft, as they involve objects dedicated to the divine service.
According to reports from several parishes within the diocese, unidentified individuals have targeted churches during off-peak hours, making away with chalices, ciboria, and even religious statues. Some of these items are of significant historical and sentimental value to the local Catholic community, while others are made of precious metals that may be targeted for their scrap value.
“We are deeply saddened by these acts of sacrilege,” a diocesan representative stated. “These vessels are not merely ornaments; they are used in the most sacred of our celebrations. We appeal to those responsible to return these items and respect the sanctity of our places of worship.”
In response to the security threat, the Diocese has recommended several measures for parish priests and administrators:
- Enhanced Surveillance: Installing or upgrading CCTV systems in areas where sacred items are stored or displayed.
- Secured Storage: Ensuring that tabernacles and sacristy cabinets are properly locked and that valuable items are not left unattended in the main sanctuary.
- Community Awareness: Encouraging parishioners and neighbors to report any suspicious activity around church premises, especially during the early morning or late evening.
The local police in Baguio and surrounding municipalities have been alerted to the incidents. Authorities are currently monitoring pawnshops and antique dealers in the region to see if any of the stolen items have been offered for sale.
The Diocese also took the opportunity to remind the public that the buying or selling of stolen religious artifacts is not only a crime under Philippine law but also carries severe spiritual consequences within the Church.
As the investigation continues, the Catholic community in the Cordilleras is being urged to offer prayers for the recovery of the items and for the conversion of those who committed the acts. Security personnel at major landmarks like the Baguio Cathedral have already tightened entry protocols to ensure the safety of both the pilgrims and the church’s heritage.