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The Order of the Discalced Augustinians (OAD) has suspended a Filipino priest from public ministry after he was found to have joined the blessing of a Masonic marker in Ormoc City, an act deemed contrary to Catholic teaching.
In a statement released on 1 September, the OAD confirmed that Fr Libby Daños, one of its well-known missionaries in Asia, took part in the ceremony on 11 August in Barangay San Pablo, where a Masonic marker was unveiled. The statement was signed by Fr Luigi Kerschbamer, OAD prior provincial, together with the provincial council of the Province of St Nicholas of Tolentino (Asia).
Fr Daños acknowledged his presence at the event but said he had not been aware of its full nature. The OAD stressed, however, that intent does not lessen the seriousness of the act. “This action, regardless of intent, contradicts the clear and consistent teaching of the Catholic Church regarding Freemasonry and has caused scandal among the faithful,” the statement said.
The order cited the teaching of the Catholic Church that participation in Freemasonry is “irreconcilable with the doctrine of the Church.” This was reaffirmed in November 2023 by the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith (DDF), with the approval of Pope Francis, in response to concerns from the Philippines, where Masonic membership is widespread.
The DDF document states that Freemasonry in the country is not limited to formal lodges but also includes many sympathisers who believe there is no contradiction between membership in the Church and in Masonic associations. It reiterated that “active membership in Freemasonry by a member of the faithful is forbidden because of the irreconcilability between Catholic doctrine and Freemasonry.”
Fr Daños has expressed “deep remorse” for his involvement and is cooperating with a canonical investigation. Pending the outcome, he has been suspended from public ministry. “We are committed to following established ecclesiastical procedures that ensure both accountability and pastoral care,” said Fr Kerschbamer.
The OAD leadership said the incident showed the need for vigilance in preserving Catholic identity and confirmed it would implement stronger formation programmes to help members avoid situations that could compromise their ministry.
Addressing benefactors and supporters, Fr Kerschbamer added: “We deeply regret any disappointment or confusion this incident may have caused. We do not take this trust lightly, and we pledge to emerge from this challenge with renewed commitment to the integrity that should characterise all who bear the name of Saint Augustine.”
Founded in the 16th century, the Order of the Discalced Augustinians is a Roman Catholic religious community rooted in the spirituality of St Augustine of Hippo. The term “discalced” refers to the barefoot or simple sandals traditionally worn by members as a sign of poverty and humility. In Asia, the order has grown since its foundation in 1994 to serve missions in the Philippines, Vietnam, Indonesia, and India.
The Catholic Church’s condemnation of Freemasonry dates back to Pope Clement XII’s 1738 bull In Eminenti Apostolatus, which forbade Catholics from joining Masonic lodges under pain of excommunication. Successive popes reaffirmed the ban, citing the secrecy of Masonic rituals, its naturalistic philosophy, and its opposition to Church authority. The Church has consistently judged that Masonic principles are incompatible with Catholic teaching on truth, faith, and the exclusive worship of God.
(Photo by ALBERTO PIZZOLI/AFP via Getty Images)
