A Field Training Program policeman who is currently detailed at the Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Bureau is now in hot water after he is accused of child abuse by a minor.
PO1 Gilbert Igot is now under investigation after he allegedly ordered a 17-year-old boy to do some push-ups last Sunday evening in Garfield Street, barangay Suba, Cebu City. Not contented, the cop allegedly kicked the boy.
The boy said that while he was watching a basketball match on television together with the 17-year-old son of Suba barangay captain Jojo Sable, the cop, who is a neighbor, barged into their house upon hearing him and his friend arguing.
The boy explained that he and his friend agreed to bet on who will win in the basketball game. The boy placed his bet on one of the teams, but his friend also wanted to go for same team. Since he could not convince his friend to root for the other team, an argument ensued.
The boy said that when the cop heard of their argument, he barged into the house and asked what the trouble was all about. When the cop learned of the disagreement, he allegedly ordered the boy to do some push-ups. The boy reasoned out that because “the cop appeared to be apparently drunk”, he heeded his order. But after he did the push-ups, the cop reportedly kicked him several times.
When the cop left, the boy reported the matter to the Suba barangay hall and had the incident entered into the police blotter of the San Nicolas Police station.
Afraid the cop might continue harassing him since they are neighbors, the minor also went to radio station dyHP accompanied by his aunt where they were advised to file a formal complaint at the Cebu City Police Office.
The case was then endorsed to the office of the Internal Affairs Service. SPO2 Antonio Dicdican said that Igot could be charged for physical injuries and for violation of the provisions of the law on protection of children. — Flor Z. Perolina/MEEV