Pope Francis Dismisses Bicolano Priest Efren Avenido Over Sexual Abuse of Minors, VP Robredo Reacts

Pope Francis has finally approved the dismissal of Efren Avenido, the former Catholic priest from Bicol region who was allegedly involved in sexual abuse of minors. The good news was made public on a Facebook post by Madz Tumbali SJ, who said that Avenido should also be criminally liable. Nevertheless, Vice President Leni Robredo has a reaction.



“This is to inform your reverences that our Holy Father Pope Francis has approved the Dismissal ‘from the Clerical State of Efren Avenido as a penalty for acts of sexual abuse of minors.” A statement reads at Circular No 12, Series of 2017, issued last Friday, November 24, and signed by Diocesan Administrator, Fr. Ronald Anthony P. Timoneer.

“This means former priest Efren Avenido is no longer bound to the duties and obligations he incurred upon ordination to the priesthood in 2015, and he no longer has the rights of a cleric under Church law. As a result, he can no longer refer himself as “reverend,” and “father.” The document added, which is addressed to the Diocese of Daet, Camarines Norte.

“Thus, any ceremonies – baptisms, weddings, confessions, and the anointing of the sick – performed by former priest Efren Avenido, are not legitimate sacraments for Catholics and would not be recognized by the Catholic Church.” The Circular said further, noting that Pope Francis has acknowledged receipt of the said decree last Sunday, November 19.

Credit: Madz Tumbali SJ Facebook

So far, no further details were revealed such as how many minors that Fr. Avenido has abused and when. But in November 201, Daet Bishop Gilbert Garcera warned the faithful in against him and a certain Fr. Roque Bacayo. According to him, both priests were suspended in 2008, and that Avenido has committed an offense against morals.



Meanwhile, VP Leni Robredo said she once attended a mass the then-Fr. Efren Avenido officiated in Daet. According to her, the former priest was friendly to everyone, especially to children. “Nalungkot ako para sa kanya, pero masaya rin para sa mga sinasabing mga biktima nya. Sana nga, patas ang naging pag-imbistiga sa kanya.” She said in an ambush interview.

Contributed by Salvi Dalida