Armed men storm lawmaker’s house
MANILA, Philippines — Five armed men wearing military uniforms and face masks barged inside the house of Catanduanes Rep. Cesar Sarmiento in Virac and handcuffed three persons on Saturday night.
Col. Paul Abay, Catan-duanes police director, said the incident occurred at around 9:30 p.m. while Sarmiento was out campaigning.
Armed with long and short firearms, the suspects handcuffed Rey Vargas, 71; guard John Tabios, 31, and tricycle driver Antonio Barba, 60.
The suspects destroyed the lock of the master’s bedroom on the second floor and ransacked the room.
Sarmiento’s grandson and a friend were in the room, but they were able to hide before the suspects managed to step inside.
The men tried but failed to destroy the lock in another room where Sarmiento’s wife, Marie, 60, and daughter, Sharita, 32, were hiding.
The suspects fled in a sport utility vehicle toward the town proper.
Sarmiento said his political rivals could be behind the incident.
- Latest
- Trending
