In a recent law enforcement operation, authorities in Cebu City apprehended a mother and her daughter following the service of a long-standing bench warrant related to an assault case. The incident, which traces back to a neighborhood altercation, highlights the lingering consequences of unresolved legal matters.
Details of the Arrest
The arrest occurred in Barangay Basak San Nicolas, Cebu City, on the evening of Sunday, February 15, 2026. Police personnel from the Dalaguete Police Station executed the bench warrant against the two individuals, identified by aliases as Ata, a 54-year-old widow, and her daughter Mary, a 32-year-old married woman. Both are residents of the same barangay.
The warrant was originally issued by Judge Maximo Perez, the Presiding Judge of RTC Branch 26 in Argao, Cebu, on April 8, 2013. It pertains to a case of Slight Physical Injuries, stemming from an incident that dates back to 2011 in Barangay Obong, Dalaguete City.
Background of the Case
According to police reports, the conflict originated from a jealousy dispute. The situation escalated when Mary's former partner, known by the alias Robin, began cohabiting with the victim, identified as Sofia. This led to a physical altercation between Mary and Sofia.
During the fight, Mary was reportedly overpowered, prompting her mother, Ata, to intervene in an attempt to assist her daughter. This involvement resulted in the victim sustaining injuries, which led to the filing of the assault charges.
Police Major Vincent Zozobrado, chief of the Dalaguete Police Station, provided insights into the motive behind the incident. In an interview with SunStar Superbalita Cebu, he stated, "Jealousy was the motive here; they were competing over the man. Mary was angry because she felt betrayed." This emotional turmoil fueled the violent confrontation that has now resurfaced through the warrant enforcement.
Arrest Proceedings
Despite the serious nature of the charges, the arrest was conducted peacefully. Both the mother and daughter cooperated with authorities upon being informed about the warrant. They surrendered without resistance, facilitating a smooth process for the police officers involved.
This case underscores the importance of addressing legal warrants promptly, as they can remain active for years, affecting individuals' lives long after the initial incidents. The Dalaguete Police Station's efforts in serving this warrant demonstrate ongoing diligence in upholding justice, even for older cases.
The individuals are now facing the legal consequences of their actions from over a decade ago, with the judicial process set to move forward based on the original charges. This serves as a reminder of how past conflicts can have lasting impacts, necessitating resolution through proper legal channels.
