PAGADIAN CITY — A heated altercation between two barangay officials erupted inside the Barangay Lenienza Hall, leaving one bloodied and sparking outrage among residents.
Reports indicate that Barangay Captain Prince Joy Gerona, who is currently on official leave, allegedly physically assaulted his first kagawad, John Cajote, who was serving as the acting barangay captain during Gerona’s absence.
According to witnesses, the confrontation turned violent when Gerona suddenly attacked Cajote inside the barangay hall, punching and kicking him repeatedly. Cajote sustained severe facial injuries and was seen bleeding after the incident.
Initial investigation suggests that the conflict stemmed from Cajote’s refusal to issue a Barangay Certificate of Indigency to the girlfriend of Gerona’s bodyguard, who had recently been arrested for illegal possession of a firearm. The case involving the woman is still pending, which led Cajote to deny the request.
Cajote, in a statement, said he is determined to file a case against Gerona, describing the assault as a clear act of harassment and abuse of power.
Authorities have since launched an investigation into the violent incident, while Gerona has yet to issue any public statement regarding the allegations.