BY MA. THERESA LADIAO
ILOILO – A 15-year-old girl has accused three males, including two minors, of raping her in a secluded area in Santa Barbara town after a drinking session on Monday afternoon, November 25, police said.
Police Major Ciriaco Esquilarga, chief of the Santa Barbara municipal police station, said the suspects — aged 16, 17, and 21 — met the girl, referred to as “Nene”, at a local hangout where they consumed alcohol.
The suspects allegedly convinced her to accompany them to a remote spot, where the assault occurred.
The incident was reported after Nene confided in a friend, who sought help from barangay officials and informed the police.
Authorities acted quickly, rescuing the two minors and apprehending the 21-year-old suspect on November 26.
The adult suspect had earlier surrendered to the Lemery municipal police before being turned over to Santa Barbara authorities.
Police have filed charges against the 21-year-old suspect for violating Republic Act 7610, the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act./PN
