BULACAN, Philippines – The mayor of Pandi town in Bulacan and two others were arrested on Tuesday, December 17, for two counts of rape filed in 2019, said the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO).
Along with Enrico Roque, authorities also arrested councilor Jonjon Roxas, and Roel Raymundo around 1 pm at the Amana Waterpark in Pandi, according to a police report.
The three are now detained at the Northern Police District custodial facility, awaiting their court appearance.
Police Lieutenant Gladys Co, the NCRPO information officer, told Rappler on Thursday, December 19, that although the complaint was filed in 2019, the delay in issuing the warrant could be attributed to the complexities of the case and the required legal procedures.
Co added that the arrest warrants were issued only after a thorough evaluation of the evidence presented by the prosecution.
“Honorable Maria Rowena Violago Alejandria, Presiding Judge of RTC, Branch 121 of Caloocan City, found probable cause to believe that the accused committed the crimes charged,” Co said.
Co said law enforcers were, at the moment, unable to locate the complainants of the case. However, she said, their primary concern was ensuring the safety of the victims.
“For privacy reasons, we cannot disclose any information that could jeopardize their safety,” said Co. “Due to the sensitive nature of the case, we are prioritizing the victims’ safety and well-being.”
In an interview with the Inquirer, Roque dismissed the allegations as “baseless and fabricated,” claiming they were part of a politically motivated effort to damage his reputation ahead of the 2025 midterm elections, in which he is seeking reelection. –Rappler.com
