Man held for rape

MANILA, Philippines - A teenage girl was allegedly pulled from the sidewalk and raped while attending her cousin’s birthday party in Quezon City early yesterday morning.

The suspect, 20-year-old Michael de Leon, was arrested following the incident.

Police said the 16-year-old victim and her brother, both of Barangay Payatas, went to their cousin’s house along Luzon Avenue in Barangay Old Balara.

While at the birthday party, the victim went outside to answer a phone call.

De Leon allegedly snatched the girl, took her to his house in nearby Barangay Old Balara and raped her.

The victim’s mother sought the help of village watchmen in arresting the suspect.