Helper found stealing money; arrested

CEBU, Philippines - A 17-year-old house help was arrested by elements of the Theft and Robbery Section of the Lapu-Lapu City Police Office after she was caught stealing money and jewelry from her employer.

The minor, originally from the northern town of San Remigio, has been working with Ruben Alivio in Barangay Marigondon, Lapu-Lapu City since September last year. Alivio is engaged in the money lending business.

Lately, however, Alivio discovered that the girl was stealing money through the ATMs that he entrusted to her when she was being made to withdraw money from the bank.

Alivio said he found out just this week that the girl has taken a total of P60,000 cash and jewelry.

Last Tuesday, he asked from the girl all the money that he has asked her to withdraw, but the girl allegedly failed to produce the money. It was found out during investigation that the girl has been sending the money to her parents in San Remigio through her 21-year-old boyfriend.

When he checked the minor’s belongings, Alivio found receipts of the money the girl has sent to San Remigio through cash electronic transfer services, as well as a pawnshop receipt for an earring she has pawned for P22,000. The earring is owned by Alivio’s wife.

Alivio then contacted the girl’s parents and informed them of the situation and the father reportedly promised to pay the amount by selling the hogs that he is raising. He reportedly bought the hogs through the money the girl has sent them.

The girl will be turned over to the Department of Social Welfare Services in Lapu-Lapu City pending the filing of charges.