Hearing on Masbate child's case re-set

CEBU, Philippines - Since he failed to gather all the names of the relatives of the alleged trafficked child victim, the petitioner’s counsel Santiago Ortiz asked for the resetting of the habeas corpus hearing.

 Cebu Vice-Governor Agnes Magpale told The FREEMAN that last Friday was the supposed day for submission of a list of names of the relatives of the nine-year-old victim who can visit her under at the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) - 7.

 The victim was “rescued” while in the company of Swedish National Conny Logstreom who was bound for Masbate. Logstreom is facing two counts of child abuse before the court.

 Magpale said the list of names is needed for them to know the relatives of the victim.

Earlier, lawyer Marino Martinquilla requested the prosecution to submit a list of names of the relatives of the minor. He said what they’re doing is for the best interest of the child.

Upon the submission of names, Magpale said they will evaluate whether to allow them visitation rights.

 However, when asked if they will allow the girlfriend of the Swedish National to visit the child, Magpale said maybe not.

 Meanwhile, Magpale said the victim is doing fine.

 “She is happy there,” said the vice governor.

 Earlier, Jesus Mitra Jr. who claimed to be minor’s uncle and Mary Jane Mitra-Evangelista, an aunt, filed a petition for habeas corpus seeking custody of the child.

 Petitioner’s counsel Ortiz said the minor has long been isolated from her relatives since they were not allowed to visit her.

The relatives of the minor filed a petition for habeas corpus against Magpale, social workers and the Provincial Women’s Commission.

The minor was allegedly brought by Logstreom from Masbate to Cebu and stayed in a hotel.

Reportedly, Logstreom was the girlfriend of the minor’s neighbor whom she called “Ate.”

The minor was rescued by the authorities on February 20, 2012 when she was with Logstreom at the Cebu Port.

The authorities arrested Logstreom after he failed to show documents proving their relationship. — (FREEMAN)