2 DSWD guards indicted in rape of minor ward

CEBU, Philippines - Two security guards detailed at the Department of Social Welfare and Development have been charged in court for sexually abusing a 13-year-old ward.

Assistant Cebu City prosecutor Ricky Jones Macabaya has found probable cause to indict Joseph Fernandez of three counts for violation of Section 5 of the Republic Act 7610 and one count for Rolito Cañete.

The prosecutor’s office has recommended P600,000 bail for Fernandez while P200,000 for Cañete.

The 13-year-old female ward of DSWD accused the two security guards of allegedly raping her sometimes in 2008. The victim, name withheld, claimed that she was brought into DSWD custody in 2008.

While in custody, she was tasked by a kitchen staff to bring rice to the guard house, where the two accused are stationed. According to the victim, for two weeks she delivered rice to the guards at night.

However, the two accused allegedly took advantage and raped her. She said Fernandez did it thrice while Cañete did it once but she failed to immediately report the incidents because of fear.

Fernandez denied the charges saying it was impossible for him to have raped the victim inside the guard house because it is clearly seen from outside. Cañete did not submit his counter-affidavit.

The prosecutor’s office did not believe that there was rape because of the absence of threat and intimidation. However, the investigating prosecutor still found the two guards liable for child abuse considering that the complainant is a minor. (FREEMAN)