‘Drunk’ man arrested for groping 23-year-old woman in Bulacao

CEBU, Philippines — A 31-year-old conductor admitted he was under the influence of alcohol after being charged with Acts of Lasciviousness for allegedly groping a 23-year-old woman in Barangay Bulacao, Cebu City.

The suspect, identified only by the alias “Bata,” was arrested in a follow-up operation conducted by the Inayawan Police Station. The complainant, meanwhile, was identified only as “Jen” to protect her identity.

Police said the victim was walking when the suspect allegedly followed her. When they reached a dark area, the suspect allegedly groped the woman’s private parts, causing her to panic and fall.

Investigators said the suspect then allegedly tried to assault her further, but the victim managed to escape after shouting for help.

The suspect was later arrested in a follow-up operation and is now detained at the Inayawan Police Station while an Acts of Lasciviousness complaint is being prepared against him.

In an interview with the media, the suspect admitted he had been drinking and claimed he was under the influence of alcohol when the incident happened.

He said it was the first time he had seen the victim and they did not know each other.

He also claimed that the woman was not dressed provocatively but that he found her attractive. The

suspect denied threatening the victim and insisted that he only touched a portion of her behind.

Acts of Lasciviousness, punishable under Article 336 of the Revised Penal Code, involves committing lewd acts against another person without consent under circumstances provided by law.

The complaint is being prepared for filing. — /IHM (FREEMAN)