Cop arrested for hitting Pasigarbo dancers from Compostela

CEBU, Philippines — A day before the staging of the Pasigarbo sa Sugbo, a police officer was arrested for allegedly “beating” nine members of the Compostela contingent who were prepping for the event yesterday.

The suspect, whose name has not been released by the authorities as of press time, served as police security for the Compostela contingent while they were billeted at the Guadalupe Elementary School.

Based on initial information released by Guadalupe Police, last August 24, 2024, the choreographers reportedly asked assistance from the police officer to gather the members of the Compostela contingent.

In a comment from a Facebook post circulating online, a dancer of the “Kumbira sa Compostela Festival” narrated their side of the incident, saying they had to adhere to a strict call time and curfew, prompting them to bathe as early as 4 p.m. so they would just have to directly eat and sleep at night.

The dancer said they were unable to bathe in the morning as their blocking rehearsals ended late. Exhausted from the rigorous practice, they went straight to bed upon their return to the Guadalupe Elementary School, where they were billeted.

A sudden company call for orientation and instructions led to delays as some dancers were still taking a bath and props men were still eating after arriving from the practice.

“Unfortunately pag abot sa mga dancers nga gikan pa naligo gi largo silag TAMPAROS and SAGPA without hearing sa ilang side and after that pag abot sa propsmen nga gikan pa tawn ni kaon wala pod paminawa ilang side gi largo silag pag (paddle) gamit kahoy and gipa extend ang kamot unya gi hapak og kahoy na dospordos unya nabali ang kahoy, after naa pay gi sukmag na propsmen,” read a portion of the comment.

According to the dancer, the performers were traumatized, with some experiencing panic attacks, and everyone was crying after witnessing the incident.

A video submitted to The Freeman shows the police officer asking the propsmen to extend out their arms, which he hit with a piece of wood.

At around 6:15 p.m, authorities of Guadalupe Police Station responded to the scene and apprehended the police officer.

Compostela Municipal Mayor Felijur “Jury” P. Quiño reportedly visited Guadalupe Elementary School to address the situation. A municipal employee stated that the Mayor plans to handle the matter seriously once the Pasigarbo sa Sugbo is over, ensuring a thorough investigation and appropriate action.

The cop is currently detained at the Guadalupe Police Station 9. He will be facing charges of physical injury and violation of Republic Act 7610 also known as Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act. (CEBU NEWS)