Pandi, Bulacan mayor Enrico Roque, others arrested for rape
Trigger warning: This article contains mentions of rape.
Police have taken Pandi, Bulacan Mayor Enrico Roque and two others into custody in connection with rape allegations.
Roque, Pandi Councilor JonJon Roxas, and another government employee were nabbed at a resort in Pandi on Tuesday night. This was after a woman filed a complaint against the suspects of allegedly sexually abusing her in Caloocan on April 6, 2019.
The warrant pertains to two counts of Rape under Article 266-A of the Revised Penal Code (Criminal Case Nos. 126653 and 126654), dated Nov. 11, 2024.
No bail was recommended for the suspects who are in the custody of the Northern Police District Custodial Facility.
The suspects have filed a motion to dismiss the arrest warrant and criminal charges, alleging they are politically motivated and without merit. They were subsequently taken to the police station for processing.
Meanwhile, Metro Manila police chief PBGen. Anthony Aberin reaffirms the NCRPO's commitment to upholding the law fairly, regardless of status.
“This operation is a strong reminder that no one is above the law. Our assurance is that NCRPO will pursue justice without fear or favor, ensuring accountability for everyone,” Aberin said in a statement.
In addition to his role as mayor, Roque is a film producer. He owns CineKo Productions, which produced Mang Kepweng: The Mystery of the Black Scarf (2020), Family Matters (2022) and Family of Two (2023).
If you or anyone you know needs help, you may call the Manila Police District hotline at 8523 3378, 0919-995-0976, 0917-899-2092.
