Physical injury raps to be filed vs Taguig bet's supporters

MANILA, Philippines - A case of physical injuries will be filed against alleged supporters of Taguig congressional bet Jett Reyes, son of former Energy secretary Angelo Reyes, for mauling a male victim whom they accused of defacing campaign materials of the younger Reyes.

Police Officer 3 Rodolfo Abenojar, offi-cer-on-case, identified the suspects as Jimmy Kamanto, 35, married, of Maharlika Village, Taguig City; Eddiemar Respicio, 20, single, of Reyes Street, Maharlika Village, Taguig City; and Albert Catacutan, 39, married, of Tenement Building, Western Bicutan, Taguig City.

The suspects reportedly pounced on victim Miguel Rasco, 48, widower, mechanic, of Tenement Building, Western Bicutan, when the latter came to the rescue of his brother Paquito, single, jobless, as the suspects confronted and harassed the latter a few days ago concerning campaign materials of Reyes that were reportedly being removed. Abenojar said the suspects helped one another in mauling Miguel. The latter tried to get back at his attackers and pulled out a bladed weapon. However, even before he could use it on the suspects, responding personnel of the Police Community Precinct 1 arrived and intervened. The police report said Kamanto, Respicio and Catacutan are working for Reyes.

After receiving information that campaign posters of Reyes were being taken off, the three suspects proceeded in the area, saw Paquito and questioned him. It was at this juncture when Miguel arrived and intervened.

A case of destruction or defacement of lawful election propaganda under the Omnibus Election Code is being readied against Paquito. Miguel, on the other hand, will reportedly be filed charges of Illegal possession of bladed weapon and violation of the Omnibus Election Code.