4 'outsiders' nabbed in Sucat demolition

MANILA, Philippines - Four of the 30 persons who allegedly attacked police officers in the violent Silverio Compound demolition Monday are “outsiders,” according to official reports.

Inspector Bernardo Mendoza, who provided The STAR with the list of suspects, said it is not unusual for some outsiders or non-residents to join in attacking demolition teams.

The “outsiders” were identified as Gaudioso Pulga of Barangay San Isidro, Parañaque; Alex Casanova and Alvin Terana, both from Las Piñas; and Jomar Tandas of Valley II, Parañaque. “They were invited to help in the protests,” Mendoza said.

One died while scores were wounded when illegal settlers clashed with police Monday morning. Thirty people were arrested – 26 of them Silverio residents – and charged with resistance and disobedience to a person in authority.

Suspect Ronel Amor, who was not on the police report, claimed he is from Pasay City.

 “My girlfriend and I were about to meet at the stoplight near Silverio. I did not even go near the compound,” Amor said. The two also denied being affiliated with anyone from the compound.

Casanova, 24, said he was on his way home after applying for a job when he was arrested, while Pulga, a 21-year-old fish vendor, said he was looking for his mother at the wet market – which was supposed to be demolished – when he was arrested.