2 men face arson case

POLICE arrested two men for allegedly burning the house of their American neighbor in barangay Pajo, Daanbantayan town, northern Cebu.

Lucio Monterde, 60, and Angelito Monterde, 43, denied burning the house of  John East Jr., a native of Las Vegas Nevada in the US.

But East told police that it was the two relatives whom he saw before his house went ablaze at 8:20 p.m. last Saturday.

East said he just arrived home after checking his pastured cow when he saw Lucio.

East said Lucio hurriedly left when he directed his flashlight at him.

East said he saw Angelito spraying something to his house before the house went ablaze.

Damage was pegged at P80,000, said SPO1 Mamierto Gastador of the Daanbantayan police.

East told police he has filed a complaint at the barangay hall against Angelito.

Gastador said last Saturday afternoon, Angelito, who was on a motorcycle, flashed a dirty finger at East while the American was walking along a road.

East reportedly heard Angelito telling him “Magbantay ka.” (Watch out.)

Police said it was not clear why Angelito threatened East. REPORTER RHEA RUTH V. ROSELL