Tuesday, January 02, 2007 Authenticity of alleged 'miracle' in San Enrique to be sought: Mayor
THOUSANDS of Negrenses are flocking to the town of San Enrique to see the alleged image of Jesus Christ and an angel that "miraculously" appeared in an Acacia tree Monday night.
The image was reportedly seen by teenager Ralph Torecella imprinted in a huge Acacia in front of their house at Rizal street, Curbada Orig, Barangay Poblacion, San Enrique at past 11 p.m. Monday.
"At first I can't believe what I saw," Torecella said in an interview over ABS-CBN-Bacolod.
Taking a closer look, he said he was shocked to see that it was really the face of Jesus Christ.
Torecella immediately informed his parents and neighbors causing the sudden spread of the report.
Media people then started to cover the report, attracting more people from the neighboring towns and cities in southern Negros.
As of press time Tuesday night, San Enrique Mayor Jilson Tubillara said in a phone interview with Sun.Star Bacolod that thousands went to their town just to have a glimpse of the image.
"Some brought towels and handkerchiefs, among other items, which they used in wiping the image for the belief that it could heal their illnesses," the mayor said.
Tubillara, however, said he will ask the church Wednesday to authenticate the so-called miracle.
"As of now, we can't make any conclusion. At least not until the church authenticates this matter," he said.
Nevertheless, he said, "If this is true, I believe that the very essence of this thing is that God wants us to reflect on this Yuletide season."
Meanwhile, Tubillara also instructed their local policemen to secure the area and maintain peace and order while people continue to flock and hold vigil in the area.
