Five suspects arrested after a foreign tourist reported an alleged harassment incident in Barangay Poblacion, Makati City on June 7. (Photo from Southern Police District)
Five individuals were arrested in Barangay Poblacion, Makati City on Sunday, June 7, after a foreign tourist reported being harassed while walking along Kalayaan Street.
According to the Makati City Police Station, the suspects -- males aged 18 to 23 -- were apprehended at around 9:45 a.m. near the intersection of Kalayaan and Salamanca Streets.
Police said the 23-year-old tourist was walking in the area when the group allegedly approached and tried to persuade him to go with them to another location. When he refused, the suspects reportedly made unwanted sexual advances and physical contact without his consent.
The victim immediately sought help from patrolling officers nearby, who arrested the suspects after he positively identified them.
They were brought to Sub Station 6 in Poblacion for documentation and investigation.
The case was referred to the Women and Children’s Desk for inquest proceedings on a violation of Republic Act 11313 (Safe Spaces Act) before the Makati Prosecutor’s Office.
Police Brig. Gen. Glenn Oliver, Southern Police District director, Cinco emphasized that harassment and other forms of abuse that violate a person’s dignity and safety will be dealt with under the law.
“We encourage victims and witnesses to immediately report incidents to the police so that appropriate action can be taken and offenders may be held accountable,” Cinco said.