Southern Leyte vice governor summoned over rape raps

MANILA, Philippines — The Office of the Ombudsman has summoned Southern Leyte Vice Gov. Christopher Yap in connection with its investigation on a rape complaint filed against him by a 17-year-old in 2017.

In a notice of hearing dated July 29, the Office of the Deputy Ombudsman for the Visayas said Yap should appear before graft investigation and prosecution officer Darius Sagadal at 2 p.m. on Aug. 28 at the Ombudsman-Visayas office in Cebu City.

“Additional evidence, testimonial or documentary pertinent to the ... cases should be brought along during the scheduled clarificatory hearing,” the notice read.

“Motion for postponement and similar dilatory motions including, but not limited to motions for resetting etc., are prohibited pleadings,” the ombudsman said. 

Yap is facing charges for violation of Republic Act 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act as well as administrative complaints for grave misconduct and violation of the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.

The victim claimed Yap raped her in a car after a drinking spree in November 2016. She said Yap attempted to rape her again in a comfort room of a gasoline station two weeks after the incident.