Panabo City, Davao del Norte—A journalist from Tagum City, Oliver Autor, was allegedly assaulted by the bodyguards of Panabo City Mayor Jose “Joe” Relampagos while covering an event at Barangay Upper Lic-anan. Autor sustained bruises and injuries and is currently receiving medical treatment.
According to witnesses, the incident occurred during a gathering of families affected by the GoldLand Village demolition at a covered court. Mayor Relampagos was present at the event when a commotion suddenly erupted. Witnesses claim that Autor was attacked by the mayor’s bodyguards, who struck him with a chair. The journalist managed to flee toward his motorcycle but was reportedly pursued.
The situation escalated further when, according to Autor, he was summoned by Mayor Relampagos for questioning regarding his critical radio reports. Autor maintains that he was only reporting based on gathered information and was not attacking the mayor personally. As tensions rose, Autor alleges that Mayor Relampagos kicked him before his bodyguards joined in the assault. Additionally, he claims he was punched in the face by the mayor and threatened at gunpoint by the security personnel.
Police officers on-site intervened when the mayor’s bodyguards allegedly drew their firearms. Autor has since filed a complaint at the Panabo City Police Office while seeking medical attention for his injuries.
Following the incident, Autor reported experiencing difficulty walking due to the injuries sustained. He has sought legal assistance and undergone a medico-legal examination. Meanwhile, Mayor Relampagos and his camp have yet to issue a statement regarding the accusations.
Autor has expressed his intent to file formal charges against Mayor Relampagos and his bodyguards for the alleged assault.
