ILOILO CITY, Philippines — Two call center agents were assaulted in separate incidents in Mandurriao district on Wednesday by suspects who appeared to be minors, prompting concerns over rising street violence in the area.
According to a report by John Sala of GMA Regional TV aired on “Saksi” Thursday night, both attacks occurred within an hour of each other in Barangay Bolilao and another nearby barangay.
The first incident happened shortly after midnight as one of the victims, identified only as “Echo,” was walking home. He recounted being chased, tripped, and robbed by a group of young men—one of whom was carrying a knife.
“I tried to run but they caught up with me. They kicked my feet, and when I fell, they grabbed my belongings. I saw one of them holding a knife,” he said.
About an hour later, another victim, “June,” was attacked while waiting for a jeepney along a diversion road.
“One of them hit me in the head. Three of them ganged up on me. I couldn’t see their faces clearly—I was protecting mine. I was shocked when I realized I was already bleeding,” June recalled.
Both victims believe the attackers were teenagers or minors, raising alarm over the potential involvement of a youth gang.
Major Shella Mae Sangrines, spokesperson for the Iloilo City Police Office, confirmed that authorities are looking into the possibility that the same group is behind both assaults.
“There’s a strong possibility that the attackers belong to the same gang, based on patterns reported by residents,” Sangrines said.
Police are currently conducting follow-up operations to identify and apprehend the suspects, as the incidents fuel public concerns over nighttime safety in the city.