GENERAL SANTOS CITY — A coach participating in the Batang Pinoy 2025 sports competition is now facing charges of Acts of Lasciviousness after allegedly molesting two male athletes under his supervision inside their billeting quarters.
According to Police Colonel Nicomedes Olaivar Jr., City Director of the General Santos City Police Office, the suspect is currently detained at the Makar Police Station following his arrest. Initial investigation revealed that the coach allegedly fondled two young male athletes while they were resting in their quarters.
Reports said the athletes were startled upon realizing that it was their male coach who was crawling toward them and touching them inappropriately. The victims immediately sought help from nearby police personnel on standby in the area, leading to the swift apprehension of the suspect.
Authorities confirmed that after validation of the incident, the coach was brought into custody and will be charged with Acts of Lasciviousness under the Revised Penal Code.
Despite the traumatic incident, the two athletes have reportedly continued their training and participation in the competition, supported by event officials and their fellow teammates.
Police are urging parents and guardians to remain vigilant and proactive in monitoring the welfare of young athletes, especially in large-scale sports gatherings like Batang Pinoy, where minors are often billeted away from home.
“This serves as a stern reminder that those entrusted with the care and guidance of young athletes must uphold the highest standards of discipline and respect,” Olaivar emphasized, adding that a progress report on the case will follow as the investigation continues.
The incident has sparked public outrage, with calls growing louder for stricter screening and psychological evaluation of coaches participating in youth sports programs to ensure the safety and protection of all child athletes.