The monstrance with the Blessed Sacrament that was stolen from the Adoration Chapel of San Sebastian Cathedral in Bacolod City at past 6 p.m. on December 30, 2023 was returned hours later.

The monstrance was found missing at 6:25 p.m. on December 30, 2023.

According to Msgr. Ronaldo Quijano, rector and vicar-general, the monstrance was found outside of the church gate placed inside a bag in the early morning of December 31, 2023.

The monstrance, which carries a host consecrated during the Mass, is kept at the tabernacle in the evening but is displayed regularly at the Adoration Chapel in the morning. 

While a Holy Mass was celebrated at past 6 p.m. on December 30, 2023, a man in black was seen reportedly running out of the chapel. 

The monstrance was nowhere to be found, but no one could tell exactly if the man took it as there was no CCTV yet installed inside the chapel.

The incident was reported immediately at Police Station 1 just across the cathedral. 

Most Reverend Bishop Patricio Buzon said, "I stand not in judgment but in shared humanity," and even called for compassion and understanding.

The Adoration Chapel was ordered closed temporarily as investigation into the incident is being undertaken. 

Despite the loss, Buzon emphasized a call for compassion and understanding, reminding the community of the values that bind them together.

A prayer of reparation for desecration done to the Holy Eucharist is also posted on the San Sebastián Cathedral - Bacolod Facebook page.

The prayer of reparation is a prayer of praise and adoration to repair any offenses that occur against the Eucharist.