Since publication of my story, Blood Ivory: Ivory Worship Catholic Church leaders in Cebu have called me a liar and have suggested I be declared persona non grata for exposing Msgr. Cristobal Garcia's past and his encouragement of smuggling by those who want ivory … [Read more...]
My First ‘Persona non Grata’ (at least from a Cardinal)
Cardinal Ricardo Vidal of Cebu would like to have me declared 'persona non grata' for my story Blood Ivory: Ivory Worship. The Cardinal suggests I lied about my interest in religious devotion. He is mistaken. I studied this topic and interviewed many people to help me understand … [Read more...]
Nation-wide Ivory Raids Begin in Philippines
The Philippines has launched an invetigation into ivory trade, starting with the collection of Monsignor Cristobal Garcia. … [Read more...]
Is the Church Tossing Out Environmental Opportunity?
With all of the opportunity for good Blood Ivory represents for people in Africa (and the Philippines), not to mention for elephants, it is disconcerting that the archbishop of Cebu believes that my exposing the ivory trade results from anti-church "bias." The Archbishop … [Read more...]
Monsignor Garcia Stripped of Titles, Suspended
Reports today from Manila that the Vatican has stripped ivory collector Monsignor Cristobal Garcia of his positions in the Archdiocese of Cebu and suspended him while the Vatican investigates accusations he molested altar boys 25 years ago in the United States. These allegations … [Read more...]