Man charged with seducing minor kills self in Pasig

MANILA, Philippines–A 21-year-old man who was jailed and charged over his relationship with a minor was found dead in what the police believe to be a case of suicide on Wednesday.

A report submitted by PO1 Roberto Aurelio of Pasig police said there were no signs of external injuries on the body of Roberto Rojan Besiata, an auto mechanic. The victim was found with a nylon cord around his neck hanging from a handrail inside their house in Barangay (village) Sta. Lucia, Pasig City, around 11 a.m. by his mother and sister.

He was rushed to a hospital but was declared dead on arrival. His father, Roberto, a garment cutter, said that his son had been depressed after the father of the victim’s 14-year-old girlfriend filed a charge of seduction against him earlier this year.

As a result, the victim was detained for a week although he was released after he posted bail. The case, however, was under mediation and would have been dismissed had both parties reached a settlement by the end of the month.

According to the victim’s father, his son had often asked him if they had the money to settle the case. He said that he had told his son not to worry as he would find the money needed for the settlement.–Vanessa B. Hidalgo

If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, please reach out to the National Center for Mental Health (NCMH). Their crisis hotlines are available at 1553 (Luzon-wide landline toll-free), 0917-899-USAP (8727), 0966-351-4518, and 0908-639-2672. For more information, visit their website: (https://doh.gov.ph/NCMH-Crisis-Hotline)

Alternatively, you can contact Hopeline PH at the following numbers: 0917-5584673, 0918-8734673, 88044673. Additional resources are available at ngf-mindstrong.org, or connect with them on Facebook at Hopeline PH.