The Catholic bishop of Iba has ordered the temporary closure of a chapel inside the Subic Bay Freeport Zone following what he described as a grave act of desecration.

Bishop Bartolome Santos Jr. ordered the suspension of all religious services at the San Roque Chapel after it and its adoration chapel were vandalized on January 18. In a decree dated January 19, Santos said the incident caused deep shock and sorrow among the faithful.

According to the bishop, the Sacred Host placed in the monstrance was found broken on the floor, while the monstrance itself and several sacred images were destroyed. He said the act “gravely offended the sanctity of the sacred place,” making it impossible to continue public worship without proper reparation.

Church authorities said the individual responsible was suffering from mental instability, possibly linked to the use of prohibited substances. Citing the person’s condition, Santos said no canonical penalty would be imposed, instead entrusting the individual “to the mercy of God.”

Invoking church law, the bishop formally declared the chapel desecrated and ordered the immediate suspension of all Masses and sacramental celebrations. The chapel will reopen only after repairs are completed and a penitential rite of reparation is conducted.

Santos also urged the faithful to pray, fast, and perform acts of charity, saying the incident should lead to a deeper love for the Eucharist and renewed respect for sacred places.