By Jennifer P. Rendon
A student was arrested in Sara, Iloilo after he was accused of sexually abusing a minor.
Police identified the suspect as John Cris Rodrigo, 21, a resident of Sitio Cabungaa, Barangay Apologista, Sara town.
Major Jose Nemias Pamplona, Sara police chief, said they initially filed a case for rape against the suspect.
But the court indicted Rodrigo for two counts of violation of Section 5, Article III of Republic Act 7610 (Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act).
Section 5 (Child Prostitution and Other Sexual Abuse) states that “Children, whether male or female, who for money, profit, or any other consideration or due to the coercion or influence of any adult, syndicate or group, indulge in sexual intercourse or lascivious conduct, are deemed to be children exploited in prostitution and other sexual abuse.”
The warrant of arrest was issued Aug. 4, 2022.
Pamplona said a P400,000 bail was recommended for Rodrigo’s temporary liberty.
The alleged sexual molestation happened last year.
The family of the alleged victim, who was 16 years old at the time of the incident, filed the case against Rodrigo.
But the suspect insisted that no rape happened since he was in a relationship with the alleged victim.
That’s why, he did not expect that the case against him will prosper.
Rodrigo is now detained.
