By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The alleged slapping incident of a minor by a municipal vice mayor in Negros Occidental is under investigation, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said.

Lacson called the incident “very unfortunate,” stating that both sides should be heard.

“Let’s hear from the accused also,” he said.

Lacson added that the incident, a case in relation to Violence Against Women and Children, is being investigated by the Murcia Municipal Police Station, as the victim is only 15 years old.

Earlier, Negros Occidental 3rd district Board Member Andrew Montelibano accused Murcia town Vice Mayor Johnny Reosura of “abusing authority” and “bullying” following allegations that the latter slapped the minor.

Montelibano said the teenager sought his help on November 9.

He vowed to assist the minor to file charges against Reosura.

The lad had also filed a blotter report with Murcia police station, and presented a medico-legal report supporting his claim that he was allegedly slapped.

The incident stemmed from an altercation that took place outside a local golf club in the town earlier this month.

During the fight, Reosura’s nephew reportedly fell after being punched.

Subsequently, barangay authorities intervened and summoned both parties for a settlement.

However, the complainant alleged that during the settlement, Reosura demanded the victim to hand over the brass knuckles supposedly used against his nephew.

The teenager claimed he was slapped for denying the use of any weapons during the fight.

Reosura also denied slapping the teenager./DGB, WDJ