Man charged for robbing churchgoer

CEBU, Philippines - A well-known robber in Pardo was charged with robbery before the Regional Trial Court after he victimized a 51-year-old woman inside the prayer room of the Sto. Tomas de Villanueva Parish last August 22.

In her complaint, Carmen Ibonalo said she was praying inside the church when suspect Jason Gumban allegedly sat beside her and announced a hold-up with a knife pointed at her.

Ibonalo said that because of fear, she did not have any choice but to take off her Singaporean necklace worth P2,000 and gave it to Gumban. She immediately then ran away.

Ibonalo said it was at the Pardo Police Station that she saw Gumban’s picture at the rogue’s gallery. Day’s after, Gumban was placed under arrest but the necklace was no longer with him.

Prosecutors recommended P100,000 for Gumban’s temporary liberty. – Jasmin R. Uy/JMO   (THE FREEMAN)