Authorities Arrest Worship Leader in Makati for Alleged Abuse of Minor
MANILA – A 36-year-old worship leader in Makati City was arrested for allegedly abusing his wife’s former student.
On Monday afternoon (March 3, 2025), the authorities apprehended the suspect at a café along Chino Roces Avenue in Barangay Pio Del Pilar, Makati City,
According to the Makati police, the suspect had been hiding in Bulacan since October last year with his wife after the victim filed a complaint. Police identified him as one of the region’s most wanted individuals.
The worship lead had been married for five years, and his wife was a teacher at a Christian school where the alleged abuse took place.
Reports indicate that the incidents happened on June 30 and August 11 of the previous year. Since the school also housed a church, the suspect, who served as a worship leader, frequently encountered the victim.
He allegedly manipulated the child by maintaining secret conversations online and convincing the minor to remain silent about what happened.
The victim eventually confided in the school principal, who then informed the victim’s mother. Following the complaint, the principal confronted the suspect and his wife, leading to the wife’s dismissal from the school.
A warrant for the suspect’s arrest was issued on February 18, 2025, and authorities coordinated with the complainant to locate him.
During initial questioning at the school, the suspect reportedly admitted to the allegations. However, he later claimed that the relationship was consensual. The police emphasized that under the law, a minor cannot give consent, making this a clear case of statutory rape.
The suspect is now detained at the Custodial Facility Unit of the Makati City Police Station. He faces two counts of statutory rape, with no bail recommended, four counts of sexual assault with bail set at P720,000, and four counts of acts of lasciviousness with bail at P180,000 each.
Authorities urge parents to stay vigilant and maintain open communication with their children to protect them from abuse. They stress the importance of parental guidance in ensuring children’s safety and well-being.
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