By Jennifer P. Rendon
The Calinog Municipal Police Station in Iloilo province has yet to confirm a reported abduction that allegedly occurred on the evening of June 30.
Major Myles Dieron, Calinog police chief, said they only have the testimonies of residents of Delgado Street about a girl who was reportedly on board a maroon pick-up truck.
According to reports, the vehicle passed by Delgado Street around 9 p.m. on Sunday. The passenger door suddenly opened, and witnesses heard a girl shouting, “Mama, tabang!” (Mother, help!)
Bystanders claimed to have seen a leg protruding from the passenger side as the girl apparently tried to jump off the vehicle.
Approximately five motorcycle riders allegedly attempted to chase the vehicle.
Shortly after, a bald man, about 50 years old and armed with a bolo, alighted from the vehicle, preventing the riders from approaching.
The pick-up truck then reversed and hit one of the riders. Fearing the occupants were armed, the group decided not to pursue further.
The vehicle was reported to have sped off toward Bingawan town.
Residents were able to note the vehicle’s plate number, and Dieron said they immediately conducted a check.
The vehicle’s registered owner is from Cabatuan town.
“When we checked the address, the house was locked. We didn’t find the vehicle in the area,” Dieron said. He clarified that the vehicle might have been sold to another person.
“But it’s still a good start for our investigation,” Dieron said.
The Calinog police have also coordinated with neighboring police stations to check if anyone has been reported abducted.
“But so far, the reports came back negative,” he said.
