Authorities arrested a volleyball coach for allegedly molesting a 17-year-old male athlete inside the official athlete housing area for Batang Pinoy participants.
Police identified the suspect only as “Roger,” a 43-year-old public school teacher and Head Coach of a women’s volleyball team competing in the national youth sports event.
According to police, the teenager was asleep when the coach allegedly climbed onto the bed, pulled down the player’s boxer shorts, and touched his private parts.
The minor’s teammate reportedly woke up, witnessed the act, and urged the suspect to stop the unacceptable behavior occurring inside the shared room.
The coach allegedly smiled and continued the inappropriate act that frightened the teenager who felt trapped and violated by the situation.
The victim reported the incident to authorities as soon as he safely separated himself from the suspect with the help of his teammate.
Police responded immediately and conducted an operation that led to the suspect’s arrest early the same morning within the venue’s athlete housing area.
Police LtCol Rexor Canoy, spokesperson of the General Santos City Police Office, confirmed that they are preparing charges for Act of Lasciviousness in relation to RA 7610.
Authorities stressed that law enforcement remains dedicated to ensuring the safety and dignity of minors during national sports events that should empower young athletes.
Police are giving support and protection to the victim as the investigation continues and accountability is pursued.
