Faith vs therapy: Inside the Philippine school for exorcists
The Saint Michael Center for Spiritual Liberation and Exorcism in Metro Manila, Philippines, is Asia's only dedicated exorcism training facility. Opened five months ago, it trains priests from across the region, including Singapore, Malaysia, Cambodia, and India. Founder Father Jose Francisco Syquia says trauma from bullying, sexual abuse, and family separation has increased cases of perceived spiritual attacks. The center follows Church rules requiring mental health vetting, with psychologists and psychiatrists on staff. However, mental health experts warn that attributing conditions to demonic possession can delay proper medical treatment. In the Philippines, where there is only one psychiatrist per 200,000 people, many prefer exorcism over psychiatric care due to stigma.
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