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Archbishop orders media blackout

Monsignor under scrutiny over abuse and ivory smuggling
Archbishop orders media blackout
Published: October 04, 2012 09:39 AM GMT
Updated: October 04, 2012 09:39 AM GMT

Clergy in Cebu archdiocese have been told not to talk to the media about Monsignor Cristobal Garcia, according to a retired archbishop. Archbishop Jose Palma of Cebu has issued an instruction that no statement should be made. Msgr. Garcia, former head of the Archdiocesan Commission on Worship, was suspended and stripped of all his positions in the archdiocese in June by order of the Vatican, as it investigates allegations that he molested altar boys more than 20 years ago in the United States. There was further trouble for Msgr. Garcia when he commented on the illegal ivory trade in the Philippines, in an article that appeared in the October issue of National Geographic magazine. The article led to a government investigation and an examination of Msgr. Garcia’s ivory collection, which includes crucifixes and Jesus figurines. Retired Archbishop Ricardo Cardinal Vidal said he received a copy of Archbishop Palma's letter last Friday and will abide by the directive. Related reports: Investigation to look into ivory trade

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