A Catholic priest in the Philippines has been suspended after a September 1, 2025, removal from ministry owing to blessing a Freemasonic monument in Ormoc City, with his Religious order confirming a canonical investigation. Hierarchical authorities reiterated that Freemasonry is “fundamentally incompatible with Catholic doctrine”.
The priest, Fr Libby Daños of the Order of Discalced Augustinians, was removed from public ministry after images circulated online appearing to show him blessing a Masonic marker in Ormoc City, in the Eastern Visayas region. The monument is associated with local Freemasonic presence, and the incident drew criticism among clergy and laity.
In a statement, Fr Luigi Kerschbamer, provincial prior of the order, said the action “contradicts the clear and consistent teaching of the Catholic Church regarding Freemasonry and has caused scandal among the faithful”, adding that the priest had expressed “deep remorse” and was cooperating with the investigation. He confirmed that the suspension would remain in place pending the outcome of canonical proceedings.
The order emphasised that the disciplinary measure reflects long-standing Church teaching. “Freemasonry is fundamentally incompatible with Catholic doctrine,” Kerschbamer said, noting that this position was reaffirmed by the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith in November 2023. In that clarification, issued in response to a query from bishops in the Philippines, the dicastery warned that confusion persists among some Catholics who believe membership in Masonic lodges is compatible with the faith.
The Catholic Church has formally prohibited membership in Freemasonry since the 18th century, beginning with *In eminenti apostolatus* of Pope Clement XII, a position reaffirmed repeatedly in subsequent magisterial documents. The current discipline, reflected in guidance from the DDF, holds that Catholics enrolled in Masonic associations are in a state of grave sin and may not receive Holy Communion.
Kerschbamer said the incident had prompted the order to strengthen internal formation, describing it as “a sobering reminder of our constant need for vigilance in preserving authentic Catholic identity”. He added that additional measures would be introduced to ensure clergy are better prepared to identify situations that may compromise their public witness.
Fr Daños remains under restriction while the canonical process continues.
