Couple to face raps for maltreating househelp - CHR

DUMAGUETE CITY, Philippine s — Special field investigator Jess Cañete of the Commission on Human Rights-Negros Oriental is now set to file charges against a couple in Bacong town of this province for alleged maltreatment of four house helpers, three of whom were minors.

Cañete said he would also ask his superiors at the CHR Central Office in Manila to facilitate for a possible hold departure order against the couple, following reports that the latter already left their house.

Police probers said the husband and wife, whose identities are being withheld until charges are filed, had worked overseas before and may have the capability to leave the country in the light of the multiple criminal cases filed against them, Cañete said.

The complainants were three 17-year-old girls (from Brgy. Bonawon in Siaton town) and 28-year-old Roel Austero (of Bacong town), who authorities had rescued last week in response to reports they were allegedly abused and maltreated by their employers.

The provincial and the municipal social welfare offices of Bacong and Siaton, as well as other agencies, would provide assistance to the complainants to secure a tight case against the suspects.  (FREEMAN)