Caloocan police sues woman who cried harassment

MANILA, Philippines — The Caloocan City police filed charges against a woman who previously reported that a motorcycle rider harassed her.

Newly installed city police chief Col. Ferdinand del Rosario said complains of unlawful means of publication and libel were filed against Samantha Pargad before the city prosecutor.

She posted a video in early September alleging that she was on her way to attend mass when the rider, who introduced himself as a police officer, tried to force her to sit on his motorcycle after she refused his initial offer to give her a ride to church.

Del Rosario said investigators found that Pargad and the rider apparently knew each other, based on the statements of two witnesses.

He added that Pargad has deleted her posts on Facebook narrating the incident.

Police are still trying to locate the motorcycle rider, he noted.

Del Rosario warned those who would post what he called “fake news” and “malicious posts” could also face criminal charges.

“Let us not take advantage of technology by posting fake news that will alarm and frighten the people, and at the same time ruin the reputation of not only the police but other persons,” he said in a mix of English and Filipino.

In late August, the Caloocan City police and officials of Barangay 162 disputed the claim of a 13-year-old that she was almost kidnapped by men riding a white van.