BACOLOD City – A man was safely rescued after climbing onto the altar area of San Sebastian Cathedral in Barangay 12, Bacolod City, on Saturday afternoon, September 26, 2026.
The incident occurred shortly after 4 p.m., prompting the Diocese of Bacolod to hold its scheduled 5:15 p.m. Mass outside the cathedral.
According to the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO), the man climbed onto the elevated altar area and remained near the image of St. Sebastian.
A police report cited by authorities indicated that the man was allegedly carrying a bladed weapon and had reportedly attempted to attack religious statues. These details had not been independently verified as of press time.
Responding personnel immediately placed an inflatable jump cushion below the elevated area as a safety precaution.
Authorities also attempted to communicate and negotiate with the man. However, he reportedly did not respond to their questions and instead signaled for responders to keep their distance.
After responders approached and the man apparently had no other way to leave the area, he voluntarily jumped and landed safely on the jump cushion.
The rescue operation lasted from 6 p.m. to 9:21 p.m. and involved personnel from the BCPO, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)-Bacolod City, City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), Amity Volunteer Fire Brigade, Chamber Volunteer Fire Brigade, and Police Station 1.
BCPO Director Col. Eugene N. Rebadomia personally responded to the scene and coordinated the operation.
The BCPO said initial information indicated that the man was a frequent visitor to the cathedral and would often pray in the area.
Authorities also observed signs that he might have been experiencing emotional or psychological distress. No medical diagnosis, however, was disclosed.
Following the rescue, the man was brought to Police Station 1 for appropriate assistance. Authorities were also working to determine his residence and locate his family.
Rebadomia said the coordinated response prioritized the man’s welfare while ensuring the safety of churchgoers, responders, and the public.
The BCPO said it remains committed to a compassionate and coordinated approach in handling incidents involving persons in crisis while maintaining public safety./PN
