By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

In response to accusations of child molestation against a Cadiz City parish priest, Diocese of San Carlos Bishop Gerardo Alminaza yesterday called for an immediate investigation into the allegations.

In a phone interview, Alminaza said Rev. Fr. Aaron Buenacosa, parish priest for the St. Joseph the Worker Church in Cadiz City’s Barangay Caduhaan, has been relieved from his post.

The bishop said the relief order was enacted due to the ongoing investigation.

He also confirmed, following the incident, Buenacosa has already contacted his office informing him of his situation.

Alminaza said Buenacosa denied all the accusations.

The bishop also appealed for the public to remain calm until an investigation carried out by authorities is completed and the results are released.

The accusations against Buenacosa came days after Pope Francis wrapped up a Vatican City summit discussing sexual abuses committed by the clergy.

Following the conference, the pope vowed concrete action against abuses committed by the clergy, although some believe leaders in the Catholic Church are not doing enough over the issue./DGB, WDJ