General Santos City — Authorities arrested a father in Barangay Conel, General Santos City, after he allegedly hit his 6-year-old child with a hanger when the child failed to follow his order to buy ice from a nearby store.
According to the police report, the minor immediately sought help from an aunt, who brought the incident to barangay officials. Responding barangay tanods apprehended the father and turned him over to the Mabuhay Police Station for custody.
Barangay officials revealed that the child suffered physical injuries and trauma from the incident. The chairperson of the Barangay Drug Abuse Committee said the victim was left shaken and fearful. Kagawad Rolando Cabarles described the act as a clear case of physical abuse.
While the child’s mother has yet to decide whether to pursue charges against her husband—citing economic hardship if he is jailed—the father remains detained pending further investigation.
Possible Legal Violations
The incident may constitute several violations under Philippine law:
- Republic Act No. 7610 (Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act): This law protects children from abuse, cruelty, and maltreatment by parents or guardians. Physical injury or punishment that causes trauma falls under this act.
- Republic Act No. 9262 (Anti-Violence Against Women and Their Children Act of 2004): The act defines violence against children as any act that causes physical, psychological, or emotional harm. Even if the mother does not pursue charges, the state may still file a case to protect the child.
- Revised Penal Code, Article 266 (Physical Injuries): Depending on the medical findings, the father could face charges ranging from slight to serious physical injuries.
Child rights advocates emphasize that corporal punishment, especially acts that result in trauma, is no longer tolerated under Philippine law. Authorities are urging the mother and relatives to prioritize the safety and welfare of the child.