THE family of an 18-year-old boy who was assaulted by 11 individuals in Lapu-Lapu City has filed formal charges at Police Station 4.
The victim was attacked by a group of at least 11 individuals on Monday, Aug. 4, 2025, a few weeks after an incident where he defended his mother from their verbal taunts.
The victim was reportedly with a classmate around 11:30 p.m. along Pakpakan Road, Barangay Basak, Lapu-Lapu City on Monday when the group suddenly attacked him.
Kristine, the victim’s mother, told SunStar Cebu on Thursday, Aug. 7, that she filed the case immediately out of fear of future retaliation.
She is initially filing charges against two minors who were rescued while authorities continue to pursue leads on the nine remaining unidentified suspects.
Basak Gender and Development focal Joan Bolondro said the two suspects, aged 14 and 16, have been under home care since Tuesday, Aug. 5, with the consent of their parents.
The attack is reportedly connected to a July incident when the victim’s mother refused to provide free soup to at least four members of the group at the eatery where she works.
The boy is now experiencing dizziness and jaw pain, causing him to miss two days of school.
Lapu-Lapu City Police Office spokesman Lt. Col. Christian Torres said charges for physical injuries may be filed, even against minors, with intervention and evaluation from the Department of Social Welfare and Development.
Torres also said while only two suspects have been identified, charges may still be filed against the others.
Bolondro called the incident an “isolated case,” adding most of the suspects are not from Basak.
Authorities have called on the barangay officials and parents to enforce curfew for minors to ensure the area is clear by 10 p.m.
He said since these are secluded locations with limited patrol coverage, local authorities’ assistance is necessary. / DPC