The Archdiocese of Jaro in Iloilo City has advised the public of a person pretending to be a priest, or a brother, to collect money. 

The person claims to be “Father Charles" or “Brother Charles.”

The fake priest conducts ceremonies and activities that only an ordained priest has the authority to perform such as the last sacrament, or the Commendation of the Dying. 

The bogus priest collects money in exchange for the services rendered.

According to Rev. Fr. Angelo Colada, director of the Commission on Social Communications of the Archdiocese of Jaro, they have monitored the activities of “Father Charles” for a considerable period.

Colada added that individuals have come to raise complaints against the fake priest which prompted the Archdiocese of Jaro to issue an advisory.

“Nang nangyari iyan noon and then bumalik naman kasi may dalawang tao na nagreklamo na nagbayad sila sa pagproseso ng kanilang mga papeles. Ginamit niya na nagmi-misa siya sa ganitong lugar, sa ganitong simbahan. Doon na tumawag sila to follow-up ng documents na ito na hiningi nila na ayon sa kanya, siya ang bahala, tapos wala naman,” Colada said.

According to Colada, it is possible that the fake priest had studied in a seminary or served in a church, as he is familiar with church rites and ceremonies.

“Beware sa taong ito. Marami siyang alyas. Fr. Charles, Brother Charles, family names na Fontanilla, Lobaton o Espinosa. Avoid na makipag-transaksyon. Una, mayroong mga hospitals na nag-administer siya ng mga last sacraments at humingi ng donations,” Colada said.

The Archdiocese is yet to decide on a legal action against the bogus priest.

GMA Regional TV One Western Visayas, as of posting time, is still trying to get a statement from the person concerned.