Knife-wielding man rescued at Bacolod cathedral

BACOLOD CITY — Authorities spent about five hours negotiating with and rescuing a 33-year-old man who climbed the altar area of San Sebastian Cathedral in Barangay 11 on Saturday.

Police Maj. Eugene Tolentino, chief of Police Station 1, said the man, a frequent visitor to the church, entered the cathedral reportedly armed with a knife at around 4 p.m.

Authorities set up an inflatable rescue cushion while negotiating with the man, who police said appeared to be in emotional or psychological distress.

The man jumped onto the inflatable cushion past 9 p.m. despite efforts by Bureau of Fire Protection-Bacolod personnel to persuade him to climb down safely.

Medical responders examined the man before he was turned over to police custody and later released to his family.

According to the BFP, the man sustained a laceration on his left ring finger and abrasions on his shoulders.

The Bacolod City Police Office said its observations indicated that the individual may have been experiencing emotional or psychological distress.

Tolentino said the family confirmed that the man sometimes displayed unusual behavior.

Authorities said responding agencies and partner groups coordinated to safely manage the situation while prioritizing the man’s welfare and public safety.

Police Col. Eugene Rebadomia, BCPO director, said police remain committed to a compassionate, coordinated and responsive approach in handling incidents involving people in crisis while ensuring public safety and protecting vulnerable individuals.

The Holy Mass scheduled that afternoon was moved outside the church.

In a Facebook post, the church thanked volunteers who stepped forward and helped manage the situation.

“We truly appreciate your courage, kindness, and willingness to serve,” it said.