Another Marzan maid claims abuse

MANILA, Philippines - A woman, claiming to be another former helper of Analiza and Reynold Marzan, went to the Department of Justice (DOJ) yesterday to testify that she, too, had been maltreated by the couple.

Evalyn Tanael, accompanied by Chief Public Attorney Persida Rueda-Acosta, asked to join the DOJ’s witness protection program.

In an ambush interview at the DOJ, Tanael said she went to authorities after seeing Bonita Baran, who had filed charges against the Marzans for maltreating her. Tanael said Analiza allegedly pinched, slapped and pulled her hair on several occasions and once forced her to drink a gallon of water.

Tanael also claimed that her relatives even gave the Marzans money so she could quit her job.

Acosta, on the other hand, said Tanael’s relatives told her there were unidentified persons casing the Tanael home.

Tanael may testify before the Quezon City prosecutor’s office today about her experience with the Marzans. She said the couple also allegedly abused two other helpers.

Also yesterday, Analiza pleaded not guilty to seven counts of serious physical injuries and two counts of attempted homicide filed by Baran against her.

Reynold, was not with her. Analiza is the only one charged for the alleged maltreatment of Baran, who attended yesterday’s arraignment, accompanied by Acosta.

The Marzans are facing a separate case for serious illegal detention before the Regional Trial Court Branch 77. They pleaded not guilty to the charges Monday. – With Reinir Padua