A U.S.-based watchdog group has reported that multiple priests in the Philippines accused of sexual abuse remain active in ministry, calling for stronger action from the country’s bishops, Life! reported.
BishopAccountability.org, which tracks cases of clergy abuse, stated on Wednesday that 82 priests and religious brothers with ties to the Philippines have been accused of abuse. At least seven of them were still serving in parishes as recently as last month, the group revealed.
Anne Barrett Doyle, the group’s co-director, criticized Philippine bishops for withholding information, stating that they exhibit a “deep sense of entitlement” in handling allegations. She also urged the government to prosecute the accused, emphasizing that none have been convicted.
In response, Cardinal Pablo Virgilio David, president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, assured that the Church is taking the issue seriously. He said an office has been established to protect minors, but individual bishops and the Vatican’s representative in the country hold disciplinary authority over accused clergy members.
The Archdiocese of Cebu later addressed the report, confirming that three priests on the list had undergone legal and canonical processes and were deemed fit to return to ministry under supervision.
The Catholic Church, which holds deep cultural influence in the Philippines, has faced global scrutiny over abuse scandals. Advocates continue to push for stricter measures to hold offenders accountable and ensure justice for victims.
