By Aaron Recuenco
A 43-year-old man was arrested by police for allegedly trying to rape a Spanish tourist in El Nido, Palawan on Monday—the second sexual assault on foreigners vacationing in the province’s popular tourist spot this year.
A police report from Palawan identified the suspect as Melencio Cahilig, a resident of Narra, Palawan. He is now detained at the El Nido police station.
Investigators said the victim met Cahilig through the partner of his female companion during a drinking session in a bar in El Nido at around 2:30 a.m. on Monday.
Cahilig reportedly befriended the victim and even offered his house in Barangay Masagana, El Nido for them to rest before going back to the hotel where she and her friends were staying.
While the victim was reportedly sleeping on the floor of Cahilig’s house, the latter allegedly started taking advantage of her.
“The victim tried to struggle and defend herself but the suspect choked her and pointed a knife on her neck and threatened to kill,” the police report read.
The victim, however, was able to escape after hitting Cahilig and immediately jumped out of the window. She suffered wounds as a result.
Last month, it was recalled that a tricycle driver was also nabbed for allegedly raping a female Irish tourist in Barangay Maligaya, El Nido.