The two men recently arrested for allegedly stalking local chapter members of progressive groups Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) and Karapatan are facing attempted murder charges.

Sipalay City police chief, Police Chief Inspector Clifford Baladhay, said Atty. Teofisto Melisa of the National Union of People’s Lawyers (NUPL) filed the charges before the Sipalay City Prosecutor’s Office against Rodolfo Gaday Alemen, Jr. and Macoy Villahermosa, both are reportedly active members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

The police official noted, while unjust vexation were initially sought, NUPL wanted the charges escalated.

In response to the charges, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, Colonel Benedict Arevalo, denied the allegations, stating, the two were eating when they were mobbed by the progressive groups and intimidated by NUPL lawyers.

Over the weekend, Alemen and Villahermosa, along with an unidentified pick-up truck, allegedly stalked the groups as they were heading to Sipalay City to attend the wake for slain NUPL member Atty. Benjamin Ramos.

Upon arrival at the wake, one of the suspects reportedly pulled out a firearm, prompting the groups to seek assistance from police.

The pick-up truck, meanwhile, sped off./DGB, WDJ