Father Edwin Caintoy of Leyte Parish Goes Missing
A parish priest in Leyte, Father Edwin Cutz Caintoy, 55, has been reported missing since December 23, 2025.
Father Caintoy, who serves as the Parish Priest of San Jose de Malibago Parish, was last seen at around 9:08 a.m. while traveling to Brgy. 108, Tagpuro, Tacloban City on an orange RUSI motorcycle driven by the parish sacristan, Janriel Pelapel. Upon reaching Tagpuro, he reportedly boarded a NORBATCO passenger bus bound for Tacloban City.
Police confirmed that Father Caintoy was last captured on CCTV at the Our Lady of Guadalupe Church along Quezon Boulevard in Tacloban City at approximately 9:52 a.m. He was then seen walking toward Robinsons North Tacloban, after which his whereabouts became unknown. As of December 25, he had not returned, and authorities have yet to determine his location. Father Caintoy was wearing a white clerical polo, black slacks, and carrying a black sling bag at the time of his disappearance.
The Leyte Police Provincial Office (LPPO) reported that an active investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding his disappearance. While there have been unconfirmed sightings of the priest, none of these reports have been verified by authorities. The LPPO is coordinating with relevant police units to follow all leads and locate Father Caintoy as quickly as possible.
Police also urged the public and media to avoid spreading unverified or misleading information, emphasizing that false reports can create unnecessary panic and interfere with ongoing investigations. Official updates will be released only through verified police channels.
Local authorities are appealing to the community for any credible information regarding Father Caintoy’s whereabouts. They stressed the importance of careful reporting and cooperation to ensure the safe recovery of the missing priest. The situation continues to develop as police pursue leads and validate reports, keeping public safety and the priest’s welfare as top priorities.