ILOILO City – Four minors are now under government custody after being charged in a sexual abuse case involving a 16-year-old girl in Molo district, prompting strong condemnation from city officials and renewed calls for tighter child protection measures.
The charges were for violation of Republic Act No. 8353 (Anti-Rape Law of 1997).
The Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) vowed due process while safeguarding the victim.
In a statement, Mayor Raisa Treñas strongly condemned the incident, describing it as a “serious matter that demands urgent, coordinated, and compassionate action.”
“As mayor and as a mother, I strongly condemn the reported sexual abuse involving a minor,” Treñas said, while urging the public to respect the privacy and dignity of the victim and all parties involved.
According to police, the alleged incident occurred on the evening of April 15, 2026 in a barangay in Molo.
Investigators said the victim initially went with her 14-year-old boyfriend to a secluded area, where three other minors — all aged 15 — later arrived. The suspects allegedly took turns abusing the victim.
The victim managed to escape around 8 p.m. and reported the incident to the barangay captain. She was later subjected to a medical examination, which yielded evidence supporting the complaint.
Police Captain Ryan Christ Inot, station commander of Police Station 4, said the suspects are now under government custody while due process is being observed.
Three of the minors are currently housed at the Balay Dalayunan, while one is under the care of a Crisis Intervention Unit, according to city officials.
Treñas said the city government, through the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) and the Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD), is closely monitoring the case to ensure the victim receives full protection and psychosocial support.
“I share the pain of the victim’s family, and we will make sure the victim is assisted,” the mayor said.
She also emphasized the need to uphold safe spaces and protect the dignity of women and children in the community.
Councilor Frances Grace Parcon-Torres, chairperson of the Sangguniang Panlungsod’s Committee on Women and Family Relations, called for a review of existing programs and policies to prevent similar incidents.
“Our office, together with concerned agencies, will take concrete steps to review existing programs and strengthen measures aimed at preventing such incidents,” Parcon-Torres said.
She stressed the importance of coordination among government agencies, schools, and barangays to reinforce education on respect, accountability, and child protection.
The councilor also urged parents and guardians to be more vigilant and actively involved in their children’s lives, noting that responsibility begins at home.
Parcon-Torres reminded the public that parents or guardians may also face legal consequences under the city’s Parental Responsibility Ordinance and national laws if negligence contributes to minors committing crimes.
“This incident is a painful reminder that we must come together to build a safer, more caring, and responsible community for all,” she said./PN
