The Archdiocese of Cebu has issued a formal statement defending its appointment of retired priest Msgr. Roberto "Boy" Alesna as chaplain of the San Pedro Calungsod Chapel and head of the Divine Mercy Center project in Consolacion.

This response follows concerns raised by retired Court of Appeals Justice Gabriel Ingles regarding the reassignment of the 75-year-old priest, who traditionally would have retired at that age. Ingles questioned the apparent "special favor" given to Msgr. Alesna, noting that other priests in the Archdiocese have typically not been reassigned once they reach retirement.

In a detailed reply dated July 11, 2025, the Archdiocese clarified that the appointment was not a standard pastoral role but rather a "project-based" position primarily focused on fundraising and the development of church infrastructure. The letter, signed by Msgr. Renato Beltran Jr., chancellor of the Archdiocese and member of its Personnel Board, stressed that the decision addressed urgent needs and adhered fully to canonical regulations as well as diocesan traditions.

The Archdiocese acknowledged Msgr. Alesna’s age but highlighted his expressed willingness to continue serving in a non-parish capacity. They cited his physical fitness and successful history of completing major church initiatives as justification for the exception.

Justice Ingles had argued in his June 26 letter that maintaining the retirement age discipline was essential for fairness and consistency within the clergy. Despite this, the Archdiocese’s official statement underscores that this assignment respects the norms while meeting the pressing demands of ongoing church projects.