Man indicted for "raping" woman, 71

CEBU, Philippines - A young man who allegedly raped a septuagenarian in Barili three months ago was indicted for sexual assault.

Cebu Provincial Prosecutor Pepita Jane Petralba approved the indictment of Juan Asas and ordered the filing of the case against him for violation of the Republic Act 8353 before the Regional Trial Court.

Asas was accused by the 71-year-old woman in barangay Luyo, Barili of raping her last January 1 at 8 p.m.

The victim said she was out of her house to answer the call of nature at a grassy place in her front yard. On her way back to the house, Asas suddenly appeared behind her.

The victim, whose name withheld, said that Asas held her shoulder and physically attacked her causing her to fall on the ground.

While on the ground, Asas reportedly hit her right eye, abdomen and left breast while her head was struck with a stone.

The accused then allegedly started raping the victim.

According to the victim, she tried to shout for help but the accused covered her mouth. Assistant Provincial Prosecutor Ryan Gingoyon found probable cause to elevate the case in court against Asas after the latter failed to submit his counter- affidavit.

Asas was nowhere to be found in his given address, prompting the prosecutor’s office to resolve the case based on the evidence submitted by the complainant. — Fred P. Languido/LPM (THE FREEMAN)