SILENCE has fallen over San Fernando El Rey Church in Liloan, a place that for decades welcomed the prayers of the faithful.
The parish is now closed for reparation, after a woman was found dead inside on the morning of Friday, October 24, 2025.
The shocking event has left the town in deep sorrow, mourning a tragedy that struck at the heart of their community.
Police said the victim, estimated to be around 30 years old, was found lying near the rear pew after church staff heard a scream.
Witnesses reported seeing a man in black flee the church shortly before the body was discovered.
The woman suffered head wounds and neck abrasions, and she was bleeding from the nose.
She was immediately rushed to the Danao City District Hospital but was declared dead on arrival by Dr. Francisco dela Cuesta.
Authorities confirmed the cause of death as injuries to the head and neck.
Police are still working to identify both the victim and the suspect, reviewing CCTV footage for additional leads.
The Archdiocese of Cebu described the incident as a “grave act of desecration committed within a sacred place.”
In a public statement, Archbishop Alberto Uy said, “We unite in prayer for the victim’s family as we condemn in the strongest terms this act of violence committed within the very house of God.”
Citing Canon 1211 of the Code of Canon Law, the Archbishop explained that a sacred place is considered desecrated when it suffers grave injury through acts that are seriously disrespectful and give scandal to the faithful.
“Consequently, the exercise of divine worship is forbidden there until the injury has been repaired by a penitential rite determined by the Ordinary according to the liturgical books,” he said.
The Archdiocese confirmed that CCTV and other evidence showed the assault occurred inside the church, concluding that the sacred space had indeed been desecrated, causing “profound scandal and pain among the faithful of Liloan and beyond.”
Uy also referenced Canon 1210, which mandates that sacred spaces are reserved for acts that promote worship and piety.
Following this guidance, he ordered the temporary closure of the parish, suspending all public acts of worship until canonical procedures for reparation are completed.
“The faithful are asked to respond to this tragedy not with anger, but with prayer, compassion, and solidarity—especially for the victim and her family,” Uy said. “
“Let us all reaffirm our respect for every human person and for the sanctity of our sacred spaces, which are meant to be places of refuge, reverence, and healing. May the Lord, rich in mercy and justice, purify and restore His temple and bring peace to all who grieve.”
Rev. Fr. Joseph Larida, moderator of the team of pastors at San Fernando Rey Parish, said the church is fully cooperating with authorities. All Masses and parish activities are now being held at the Parish Pastoral Center.
“We ask for your understanding and continued cooperation during this time. Let us also join together in prayer for peace, healing, and for all those affected by this distressing event,” Larida said.
The incident has left the Liloan community shaken.
The church, once a symbol of faith and sanctuary, now stands silent as the town grieves and waits for the day when its doors may open again.
