Pampanga town's 300-year-old Sto. Niño image missing

MANILA, Philippines - A 300-year-old ivory statue of the Child Jesus known to Filipinos as Santo Niño was reported missing from the Betis Church in Guagua, Pampanga.

According to a radio report on Tuesday, the image of the Virgin Mary was originally carrying the Sto. Niño and was supposed to be displayed for a procession last December 30.

The image has inspired devotees for centuries and is among the church's most cherished valuables since it was established in 1607.

The parish has appealed for the Sto. Niño's image to be returned. Police also urged the public to help in the statue's retrieval.

The Betis Church is considered a national cultural treasure.