3 plead not guilty to molestation

THREE men charged for molesting a guest relation officer (GRO) inside a bar denied the charges filed against them.

Michael Almasin, 23, Mark Gil Ceballos, 24, and Fernando Susa, 44, pleaded not guilty when arraigned last week.

The City Prosecutor’s Office (CPO) found sufficient evidence to charge them for molesting Jane (not her real name) on July 4.

In his resolution, Prosecutor Victoriano Bello said the complainant is employed at a bar in Buhangin, Davao City.

In her affidavit, Jane said she was performing a shower show inside the establishment in a two-piece attire. As part of the show, interested customers are allowed to apply soap to the body of the performer in the presence of other customers.

While performing, respondents conspired to maliciously mash her breasts, prompting the victim to stop the accused.

Jane also stopped the shower performance and stayed away from the three accused. She said the three apologized and promised not to do it again. They requested her to come near their table and continue the show.

As the victim approached the three, Almasin moved the panty of complainant by pushing it sideway and maliciously inserted his fingers.

The complainant threw a glass at the three, causing a commotion. Susa then hit the victim on her mouth, causing a laceration on lips, thus the filing of the case.

Bello charged the three with unjust vexation for mashing the complainant's breasts. Almasin was also charged with rape (sexual abuse) and Susa was charged with slight physical injury.