Priest relieved of parish duties after child abuse raps

CEBU, Philippines —  The priest in Mandaue City who was accused of hitting the minor child of his cook has been relieved as parish priest of the Nativity of Mary Parish as the Cebu Archdiocese starts an investigation into his case.

Archbishop Jose Palma said he has assigned three priests to investigate the incident, namely Msgr. Raul Go, Msgr. Danny Sanico, and Fr. Sherwin Leo Ferrater. The panel will recommend the next steps to take against Fr. Decoroso Olmilla, 61.

Palma assured that justice will be served and that the panel will be fair and impartial. He is hopeful that the panel can render its recommendations within a week.

Palma said he decided to remove Olmilla from his post as parish priest because his continued presence will not be beneficial to the community.

He has assigned Vicar General, Msgr. Sanico, to take over Olmilla’s parish in the meantime.

Palma said he was saddened about what happened and apologized to the public, especially to those who may be affected directly by the priest’s actions. —  JMO (FREEMAN)