Dela Cruz to file raps vs Fil-Ams for assault

MANILA, Philippines - Barangay Ginebra assistant coach Arthur dela Cruz will file charges against two Filipino-Americans who dealt him injuries during a traffic altercation along South Luzon Expressway early Sunday morning.

Ginebra top official Robert Non said they’re extending Dela Cruz all necessary support in his legal battle with alleged attackers Orquia Joeffrey Lacuesta and Tristan Bael.

Dela Cruz is to undergo surgery to repair dislocated bones in his left hand suffered in the attack. He also sustained bruises in his body.

“Art is injured and can’t attend the team’s practices because of his injuries. He’s consulted lawyers as he’s determined to file charges against the suspects. San Miguel is extending Art all the necessary assistance,” said Non.

PBA media bureau chief Willie Marcial said they will look into the incident that took place a few hours after the Ginebra-Alaska road game in Batangas City Saturday night.

The Kings were on board the team bus on the way back to Manila when the incident happened.

A police report said it was a traffic misunderstanding with the Fil-Ams, on board a Ford Lynx, thinking the Ginebra bus forcibly cut its way into their lane.

The car then chased the bus then blocked its path before the C-5 toll gate.

Dela Cruz tried to prevent the suspects from attacking the bus driver Likong Leutemio Olami, but he was the one attacked instead.

“Art talked to the Fil-Ams. He thought everything was okay. It caught him by surprise when the suspects pulled him down from the bus,” said Non.

“Good thing the players were asleep, or it could have created a bigger trouble,” Non said.

Reports said the suspects appeared to have been pacified as they headed back to their car but instead returned with a skateboard which they allegedly use to smash the bus door.

The police said the suspects were “seemed to be under the influence of liquor.”