MATI CITY, DAVAO ORIENTAL — A Grade 9 student reportedly escaped from an alleged attempted rape incident involving an unidentified driver near the Techno Park area in Barangay DMM, Mati City, on the evening of August 27, 2026.
Based on initial information circulating on social media and details released by the local government, the minor was reportedly taken by a man driving a red pedicab to a dark and grassy area near the Techno Park, where the alleged abuse was reportedly attempted.
The student was reportedly able to escape from the area and seek help. Initial reports also indicated that the victim sustained injuries, including wounds to the face.
Authorities have yet to establish the complete circumstances surrounding the incident. The Mati City Police Station is continuing its investigation to determine exactly what happened and identify the person responsible.
The case has prompted an urgent appeal for assistance from owners of closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras in areas that could help establish the suspect’s movements before and after the incident.
Residents and business establishments with CCTV footage covering the Sto. Niño–Techno Park area, possible exit routes toward the East Coast, or the Menzi area toward Poblacion have been urged to coordinate with the Mati City Police Station.
Investigators are particularly seeking footage that may capture a red pedicab believed to have been involved in the reported incident.
P100,000 Reward Offered for Verified Information
Amid the ongoing investigation, Mati City Mayor Mayo Almario announced a P100,000 reward for the first person who can provide credible and verified information that leads to the identification and apprehension of the person responsible for the alleged incident.
According to the public notice issued by the People’s Administration, information submitted for the reward must include the alleged suspect’s name and address and must subsequently be verified by the Philippine National Police (PNP) as accurate and relevant to the investigation.
Authorities emphasized that the reward is intended to assist law enforcement and does not replace or interfere with the proper legal process.
Individuals with credible information have been urged to immediately contact the Mati Police Station Operations Hotline at 0998 598 7122 or Mati City Police Station Chief of Police PLCOL Frederick Sa-ao at 0998 967 4205.
The local government said information provided by informants would be treated with strict confidentiality and appropriate care.
Public Urged Not to Spread Unverified Claims
The local government also appealed to residents to refrain from spreading unverified information, names, photographs or accusations on social media while the investigation remains ongoing.
The appeal comes as posts concerning the incident have circulated online, potentially exposing the identity of the minor or resulting in the premature identification of individuals who may not be connected to the case.
The PNP is expected to establish the sequence of events, identify the driver involved, examine available CCTV footage and gather other evidence and statements that could determine what actually occurred.
Authorities have also stressed the importance of allowing the investigation and legal process to proceed based on verified evidence.
The incident has raised concern among residents, particularly because the alleged victim is a minor.
The Mati City government said it would continue supporting law enforcement efforts to identify the person responsible while maintaining that the investigation must be conducted within the bounds of the law.
For now, the allegation remains under investigation, and no individual has been publicly identified as the suspect or formally established as guilty in connection with the reported incident.
Authorities are urging anyone with direct, credible information or relevant CCTV footage to coordinate with the Mati City Police Station rather than posting unverified claims online.