A 14-year-old boy died after he was allegedly killed by his stepfather in Gindaruhan, Minglanilla, Cebu, on the night of Aug. 24, according to a report.
The suspect, identified as 34-year-old alias Romnick, initially claimed that he found the victim, Eric, already dead in a grassy area and said the boy had died by suicide.
The victim’s mother, Ems, rejected the claim, particularly after the suspect allegedly fled following the incident.
The victim’s siblings also reportedly said they saw the suspect approach their brother while his legs were trembling before taking him outside the house.
A rope reportedly used for tying chickens was found around the victim’s neck.
According to Ems, she had separated from the suspect because she could no longer tolerate his alleged abuse toward her and the victim. She also alleged that her husband used illegal drugs and was frequently jealous.
Ems appealed to the public not to judge her, saying she was doing everything she could to keep her children away from the suspect.
She said she has been looking for a boarding house during her days off and plans to take the children with her after the first school term. She works as a child caregiver to support the family.
Ems is calling for justice for her son and hopes authorities will soon arrest the suspect.
Meanwhile, the Minglanilla Police are preparing to file the appropriate charges against the suspect.
