Antipolo priest suspended for fund misuse

MANILA, Philippines — The Diocese of Antipolo has suspended a priest amid allegations of fund misuse.

Antipolo Bishop Ruperto Cruz Santos said the suspension of the priest, whose name was withheld pending results of an investigation, would take effect tomorrow.

The office of the Bishop of Antipolo said it had offered the prelate several chances to clear his name and/or respond to allegations by requiring him to submit an affidavit or statement.

“However, he ignored these opportunities to clear his name and recently committed other acts similar to the allegations,” the bishop’s office said.

The diocese said the priest is being investigated for alleged fund misuse and abuse of trust and authority related to financial management in his previous assignments in the past several years.

“This behavior has repeatedly caused scandal within the community and raised questions on the integrity of the priest concerned when it comes to money management,” the bishop’s office said.

Santos said the priest disobeyed his directives despite repeated instructions and pastoral reminders.

The suspension will remain in effect until the prelate repents sincerely and renews his commitment to the promise of obedience, Santos said.