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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider No foul play in nun's death, parish clarifies

No foul play in nun's death, parish clarifies

Published Jun 28, 2025 02:57 pm
(Photo courtesy of St. Therese of the Child Jesus Parish in Talisay, Batangas Facebook page)
(Photo courtesy of St. Therese of the Child Jesus Parish in Talisay, Batangas Facebook page)
The St. Therese of the Child Jesus Parish in Talisay, Batangas clarified that there was no foul play or sexual assault involved in the sudden death of Sr. Rita Rama, a nun found lifeless in her apartment in Lipa City on June 27.
“After a thorough investigation by the Lipa City Police and SOCO, and autopsy conducted by the forensic expert, it is believed that she suffered a myocardial infarction, commonly known as heart attack,” the parish said in an official statement shared by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) on its Facebook page.
“No evidence of foul play or sexual assault was found.”
The clarification comes after the parish confirmed Sr. Rita’s body was found in an advanced state of decay, prompting immediate cremation after autopsy. 
“Cremation immediately followed after the autopsy because her body was found in the state of advanced decay,” it said.
Sr. Rita, a member of the Blessed Sacrament Missionaries of Charity, served two mission communities in Dagatan Creek and Paanan ng Bundok, both in Lipa City. 
“She was instrumental in building more than 40 houses for the less fortunate families in Dagatan Creek,” the parish noted.
She also served as a “Prayer Catechist,” teaching basic prayers in public schools.
Her ashes are now in San Fernando Funeral Homes in Lipa City. 
“Wake and burial are still being planned by her family and religious congregation,” the parish added.
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