Korean faces lasciviousness charge for "molesting" applicant

CEBU, Philippines – A Korean national who manages an international company in Naga City was charged in court charges of acts of lasciviousness after a Filipina job applicant complained of his alleged sexual advances during her job interview two months ago.

Associate Prosecution Attorney Ryan Gingoyon of the Cebu Provincial Prosecutor’s Office found probable cause to charge Chang Yeon Ji before the court. Acting Provincial Prosecutor Joseph Berciles approved the recommendation.

The woman, 25, a resident of South Poblacion, Naga City said the incident happened when she appeared for a job interview at Siloh International Corporation last May 23. She reportedly applied as an accounting clerk.

The complainant alleged she was called to Chang’s office 10 minutes before the interview, as she had to undergo a written examination with the head of the accounting department.

After the exam, the head of the department, a certain Eric, reportedly ushered her to Chang’s office for the interview proper. Chang then reportedly ordered Eric to call another employee to explain about the salary, but while she waited, Chang allegedly approached her and hugged her tight.

Chang also allegedly forcibly kissed her lips and touched her private parts despite the resistance.

The victim originally filed a complaint for violation of Section 16 of the Provincial Ordinance 2005-18 against Chang, however, the prosecutor’s office ruled that the proper charge should be Acts of Lasciviousness.

The prosecutor’s office resolved the complaint solely based on the complainant’s allegations because Chang failed to submit his counter-affidavit despite the time given him. — Fred P. Languido/JMO (THE FREEMAN)