Pope accepts resignation of Philippine bishop accused of harassment

Published: 2003-11-25

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope John Paul II has accepted the resignation of a Philippine bishop accused of sexually harassing his former secretary. The Vatican announced Nov. 25 that Bishop Teodoro Bacani of Novaliches was stepping down under a provision that foresees resignation in cases of "ill health or some other grave cause." The pope named as his replacement Bishop Antonio R. Tobias of San Fernando de La Union. Bishop Bacani had been under a Vatican investigation since June, and the Vatican had named Bishop Tobias to administer the diocese pending its outcome. The Vatican offered no explanation for the move.

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