The Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro has warned the public against a man allegedly posing as a Roman Catholic priest, saying he has no clerical authority and may be misleading the faithful.
In a statement issued May 7, Archbishop Jose Cabantan identified the individual as Roel Roy Banggo Ucat, saying verification showed he is neither ordained nor incardinated in the archdiocese or any recognized Catholic jurisdiction.
The archdiocese said the man has no authority to celebrate sacraments or perform any ministerial functions in the name of the Roman Catholic Church.
It also cautioned that a group linked to him, calling itself the “Servants of Mary, Mother of the Poor Congregation,” is not a recognized religious institute within the universal Church.
“The faithful are hereby strongly warned to exercise prudence and vigilance,” the statement said.
“Participation in sacraments administered by unauthorized individuals may lead to confusion and, in certain cases, may render the sacraments invalid,” it added.
Church officials urged Catholics to verify the identity and canonical status of clergy, particularly in unfamiliar settings, and to report any suspicious religious activities to parish offices or the archdiocese.
