ZAMBOANGA CITY — A father is now behind bars after being arrested for allegedly sexually abusing his own 7-year-old daughter inside their home in Barangay Tugbungan.
Barangay Chairman Monching Saavedra personally confronted and apprehended the suspect following reports of the disturbing crime. During the interrogation, which was recorded on video, the father admitted that his actions were influenced by his constant consumption of pornographic materials and scandal videos.
Saavedra, visibly angered by the father’s confession, pressed him to acknowledge the vile act committed against his minor child. The suspect claimed he was not under the influence of drugs at the time but admitted to being addicted to watching obscene content.
The barangay immediately turned over the suspect to Police Station 6 in Tetuan for further investigation and proper legal proceedings. Authorities assured that the victim’s safety and welfare remain the top priority as the case moves forward.
“This is a grave betrayal of parental responsibility,” Saavedra emphasized, underscoring the community’s outrage over the incident. He vowed continued coordination with law enforcement to ensure justice is served and the child receives protection and support.
The arrest highlights the urgent need for vigilance against sexual abuse within households and the responsibility of communities to act swiftly against predators—even when they are family members.