Rookie cop, 3 barangay officers accused of beating up trike driver

MANILA, Philippines–A rookie cop and three barangay officials are in hot water for allegedly beating up a tricycle driver, who was accosted for speeding in Novaliches, Quezon City.

Charged with physical injuries before the Quezon City prosecutors office are PO1 Elizardo Dorado of the Novaliches police station, and Barangay Capri peace officers Cynthia Lanuzo, Lanie Ledesma and Romeo Rebulgera.

The charge came after tricycle driver, Mark Gregory Manaog, 27, came forward Thursday to accuse the four of beating him up in front of a barangay hall last April 13.

Case investigator SPO1 Jaime Jimena said the alleged assault happened at around 3:30 a.m. along Sampaguita Street in Barangay Capri, Novaliches.

Manaog claimed that Dorado flagged him down for speeding on his tricycle ordered him to go to the barangay hall.

The victim had just gotten off his vehicle when Dorado allegedly punched him in the mouth, causing him to fall to the pavement, and kicked him repeatedly while he was down.

In his statement, Manaog said he pleaded with Dorado to stop hitting him but the policeman proceeded to pull him up by the neck and punched him again.

Manaog alleged that he was held at the arms by the three barangay peace officers while Dorado continued to hit him.

The victim’s brother, Masol, also pleaded with the officers to stop and hugged Manaog to shield him from the blows.

It was only when the brother stepped in that Manaog was able to break free and run away.

As the brothers were about to flee on their tricycle, Dorado allegedly used his motorcycle to block their path and even tried to grab their keys.

At that point, a patrol car of the Novaliches police station arrived to intervene. Other policemen told the victim to go back to the barangay hall but Manaog had himself checked at the Quezon City General Hospital after the policemen left.