Priest Embroiled in Ivory Smuggling Controversey

CNN
By Madison Park

PHILIPPINES---A priest known for his collection of religious art is under investigation for possible involvement in the illegal ivory trade, according to a Philippine law enforcement agency. Monsignor Cristobal Garcia was quoted in the October issue of National Geographic directing a reporter to ivory carvers and traders, and also dispensing advice on how to smuggle the banned item into the United States. Garcia was known as "one of the best known ivory collectors in the Philippines," according to National Geographic. Elephants, valued for their tusks, are being killed in Africa at an alarming rate by well-armed poachers, according to conservation groups. National Geographic described Garcia owning a "mini-museum" filled with ivory religious figures. The church said the National Geographic Magazine story "needs to be assessed as to its veracity, considering that the article smacks of bias against religious practices."[link]