Mayor Archival commends cops for swift arrest of rape suspect

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival has commended the Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) for the swift arrest of a suspect in the rape of an 11-year-old girl in Barangay Kalunasan.

Fernando Abapo Prajes, also known as “Andot,” 37, was arrested at around 2:25 a.m. on March 10 at Pier 4, North Harbor, Zaragoza Terminal in Manila. Authorities said Prajes, a habal-habal driver and resident of Sitio Kalubihan, Barangay Kalunasan, Cebu City, is facing charges for violation of Republic Act 8353, or the Anti-Rape Law of 1997.

Prajes allegedly raped the 11-year-old victim at around 3 p.m. on March 7 in Barangay Kalunasan before fleeing to Manila.

In a press briefing, Archival expressed relief over the suspect’s arrest and praised the city police for their efforts in tracking him down.

The mayor said the arrest demonstrated the determination of law enforcement authorities to ensure justice for victims, noting that police moved quickly after the incident was reported.

According to the mayor, the victim’s mother, who works at Cebu City Hall, noticed something unusual about her daughter. The child later disclosed the alleged assault, prompting the family to report the incident to barangay officials and the police.

Authorities said the suspect was arrested while on board the vessel MV 2GO Maligaya, which was traveling from Bacolod City to Manila.

The operation was carried out through coordination among the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group Regional Field Unit–National Capital Region, the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit of Police Station 12 of the Manila Police District, the Philippine Coast Guard North Harbor, the Sea Marshal Unit, and the Philippine Ports Authority, among others.

Archival also assured that the city government would extend assistance to the victim and her family.

“For now, our priority is the child,” the mayor said, adding that the victim will be assisted by the Department of Social Welfare and Services (DSWS). The city government also plans to provide financial assistance to the family to help cover the child’s medical needs and follow-up care.

The mayor also issued a warning to individuals who commit crimes in the city, saying the arrest sends a clear message that authorities will pursue offenders wherever they go and ensure they are held accountable.

“Makita nato nga naghatag ta’g message nila, ayaw himoa diri sa siyudad sa Sugbo. Ang atong mga kapolisan ug atong city government nagtan-aw ninyo,” he said. — Elizabeth Salarde, UP Cebu intern / FPL (FREEMAN)