History of the Apostolic Prefecture of Battambang

The Holy See established this prefecture on September 26, 1968, entrusting it to Mgr. Paul Tep Im Sotha, as Apostolic Prefect.

This prefecture covers 8 provinces, namely: Battambang, Pursat, Kompong Chhnang, Kompong Thom, Siem Reap, Preah Vihear, Oddar Mean Chey, Banteay Mean Chey and Païlin.

Mgr. Paul Tep Im Sotha was born in Phnom Penh in 1934. He made his studies in France and his theology in Rome. He was ordained priest in 1959, and took care of the Khmer Catholics in Phnom Penh (St. Mary's Parish). On September 26, 1968, he took charge as Apostolic Prefect of Battambang. He was killed in May 1975 at Bat Trang, in Mongkolborei, district of Banteay Mean Chey province.

Mgr. Kike Figaredo was installed as Apostolic Prefect on July 2, 2000.

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