Mandaue village chief won’t back down despite sexual abuse allegations

BARANGAY Maguikay, Mandaue City chief Eduardo Gumera Sr. has no plans of backing down despite accusations against him that he allegedly molested the 15-year-old daughter of his close friend.Gumera told reporters on Tuesday, Aug. 23, 2022, that he will face the charges filed against him by Nene (not her real name).On Monday, Aug. 22, Nene’s mother, with the assistance of the National Bureau of Investigation in Central Visayas (NBI 7), sued Gumera for lascivious conduct after allegations that he molested the girl last April.Nene said she initially sought Gumera’s help to transport her to a political rally last April 18. But to her surprise, the latter brought her to a motel in Lapu-Lapu City instead.The mother said her daughter almost committed suicide in a bid to forget what happened.Gumera is now facing charges for violating Section 5 of Republic Act 7610, or the Special Protection of Children against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act.Gumera refused to make any further comments on the matter, saying he would just present his side before the court.Despite the controversy, Gumera said the issue would not hinder him from serving his constituents.He also denied reports that he did not report to his office to hide from the issue.