Man detained for "stealing" money from retired priest

CEBU, Philippines -  A 55-year-old man is now detained at the Talisay City police detention cell after he was caught allegedly stealing money from a retired priest residing at the Augustinian Novitiate Prayer House, in barangay Lower Mohon, Talisay City yesterday morning.

Police recovered P1,000 that suspect Ramon Roma allegedly took from retired priest Fr. Ambrosio Galindez, 80.

Police said Roma gained entry into the prayer house the fact that he is the son of a friend of the former priest.

Roma's father was the pianist of the church where Galindez used to serve.

PO2 Leandro Azarcon of Talisay City Police Station's theft and robbery section said it was the former priest's caregiver Edmar Antone, 29, who reportedly saw the suspect taking the money from Galindez's wallet.

Antone said Roma was acting suspiciously at that time so Antone said he followed him with his eyes when Roma entered Galindez's room shortly after the former priest left.

Antone said he then followed Roma inside and saw him taking the money from the wallet which at that time was placed inside Galindez's pants.

At this juncture, Antone arrested Roma through the assistance of a security guard and took him to the police station.

Azarcon said Roma reportedly admitted taking the money.