By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The Negros Oriental Commission on Human Rights (CHR) is currently looking into an alleged mauling by barangay officials in Mabinay, Negros Oriental on June 20.
Special investigator, Dr. Jess Cañete, identified the three officials as Barangay Tadlom Captain Lowell Signap and tanods Merlito Gallanero and Modesto Fuentes.
According to Cañete, the three face possible administrative and criminal charges for the alleged mauling of 27-year-old Alpie Terano and 18-year-old Joey Callao, both residents of the said barangay.
Based on Terano’s testimony, he claimed the assault took place inside his aunt’s home, where he said the three officials attacked him while Callao was out visiting a nearby store.
He also recounted, before returning to the home, Callao was allegedly approached by Fuentes and struck him in the leg with an axe handle.
Callao reportedly limped away and hid in a well, while Terano was later rushed to a hospital for medical treatment.
Additionally, based on police records, the three officials were said to have been intoxicated at the time of the alleged incident.
Subpoenas for the three officials have already been sent out, Cañete noted, where they have 10 days to respond upon receipt.
Aside from assault charges, the three also face trespassing charges after barging into the home without permission./WDJ