ILOILO — A barangay captain in Zarraga, Iloilo, is facing serious allegations of sexual abuse and rape involving a 15-year-old girl, known as alias “Nene.”
The victim, who confided the ordeal to her grandfather, reported a pattern of abuse by the official, culminating in two specific incidents.
“Sa lolo niya siya nagsumbong. Sabi raw niya, hinipuan at hinalikan siya sa lips. Akala ko iyon lang, kaya sabi ko ipatawag na lang kung ano. Kaso, parang wala naman silang aksyon,” said alias “Jun,” the victim’s father, in an interview.
The most recent alleged incident occurred in December 2025 following a barangay Christmas party. Nene, who had been permitted by her father to attend the celebration at the local gym, was reportedly followed home by the village chief.
Upon reaching her residence, the captain allegedly covered the victim’s mouth to stifle her cries and forcibly took her to a secluded area behind the house. Accounts state that loud music from the party and the late hour made it impossible for her to attract attention, while her family slept inside.
When the family formally reported the incident to the Zarraga Municipal Police Station in January, further details emerged. The victim revealed that the abuse allegedly began when she was 11 years old but had stopped until the recent resurgence last year.
The victim reportedly kept silent for years due to fears for her life.
Following the report, a medical examination yielded findings consistent with sexual assault.
Police are now preparing a criminal case against the barangay captain, estimated to be in his 30s. The suspect has not been seen in the barangay since the allegations circulated and is currently considered missing.
As of this writing, authorities have withheld the suspect’s name pending the formal filing of charges. The victim’s family remains determined to pursue the case to ensure accountability and prevent further victimization of children in the community./PN
