By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga
The Diocese of San Carlos in Negros Occidental will cooperate in the investigation against a priest in Sagay City who was arrested over rape charges on Monday, March 27.
Bishop Gerardo Alminaza said the diocese has been consistent in their teachings and advocacy against any form of sexual abuse of children, women and vulnerable persons, and such crimes committed by any person, and especially priests or religious, cannot be tolerated.
“This is a grave crime which contradicts the priesthood,” Alminaza said.
He conveyed his utmost assurance that they would fully cooperate with civil authorities and to properly observe the legal process in the judicial system for truth to come out and for justice to be served accordingly.
Alminaza also assured the alleged victim and her family of support and protection.
According to the stipulation, the alleged victim and her family will be treated with dignity and respect, and must offer them support, as well as spiritual, medical and psychological help, as required by the specific case.
Meanwhile, with regards to Fr. Conrado Mantac, the accused, Alminaza said he also takes confidence in his word that he will face the allegations filed against him.
“We recognize his right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty, and thus support him in his efforts to establish his innocence in court,” Alminaza said.
He further pointed out that while Mantac faces the crime of rape and of the pending preliminary investigation, they still assume responsibility of the accused.
The priest’s pastoral duties in the Diocese have been temporarily suspended.
Alminaza said the church will also proceed with its own canonical process accordingly.
“As the case proceeds, I humbly ask everyone to keep their judgments as we await proper disposition by the court. I implore you to pray for Fr. Mantac and the alleged victim, as well as to show them care. May we be able to balance our zeal in the pursuit of justice and truth with caution, decency, and respect,” Alminaza added.
Earlier on Monday night, police operatives in Sagay City served an arrest warrant against Mantac in Camelot Subdivision in Bacolod City’s Barangay Estefania.
Mantac had a warrant of arrest for rape issued by Executive Judge Reginald Fuentebella of the Sagay City Regional Trial Court Branch 73, police said.
Mantac is currently detained at the custodial facility of the police station.
There is no bail recommended for the charge./DGB, WDJ