From the Cebu Archdiocesan Chancery:
To our Brothers and Sisters in the Faith! It is with deep sadness to inform you that our dear brother priest, REV. FR ELISEO “LEO” FERNANDEZ is confirmed dead after identifying his body through his celibacy ring.
The police from Toledo Police Station came over to inform Church authorities that a body has been unclaimed at a funeral parlor in Toledo City. Indications were high that this could be Fr. Leo’s due to the ring that has a cross... design. Said body was found floating in the shores of Bato, Toledo City on December 18 and was reported to the Toledo police on said day.
Fr Leo’s brother also positively identified the ring as that of Fr. Leo’s because it also has his name engraved on it.
The clothes as described by funeral parlor personnel also matched the description of the ones worn by Fr Leo on the night he was washed away by the strong current.
Chances are the family will consider to have the body cremated, because the funeral parlor has suggested for his immediate burial.
Despite our pain and sorrow over this unfortunate event, we are thankful that Fr. Leo’s body has been finally recovered.
In the spirit of our ministerial brotherhood and being one in Faith, we pray for his eternal repose as we also include all who died because of this recent calamity.
Thank you!