4 ‘quack doctors’ nabbed

Four alleged faith healers were arrested by the police in the City of Naga, Cebu after they were accused of duping an 85-year-old patient to cough up almost P13,000 for healing sessions.

The suspects were identified as Juan Otero, 49; Leonardo Baricuatro, 28; Agnes Juanillo, 38; and Melinda Otero, 46, all residents of Barangay South Poblacion.

“Sa kadugay na namo’g sigeg panambal sir, karon pami nakasuway nga nadakpan,” Melinda said.

She said they were very clear from the start of the transaction and the complainant agreed to pay regardless of the outcome.

“Motambal mi nimo pero wala ni pinugsanay kung motuo ka o dili, mao na among sabot,” Melinda recalled having told the complainant.

The complainant, Basilisa Solon, resident of Guba, Cebu City, agreed to undergo several healing sessions. However, her condition did not improve after several healing sessions and despite the supposed removal of foreign objects from her body.

“Gipakita mi nila paghuman sa 112 ka mga dagom ug murag mga tuyom nga gikan daw sud sa lawas ni lola. Gidautan lagi daw siya,” said the complainant’s grandson, Mateo Borres.

Borres said they have paid a total of P12,700 to the suspects and six chickens allegedly used during the rituals last October 25.

“Una, ang ila rang gipangayo kay P11,200 wala pa nay labot sa unom ka manok ug sa akong gihatag nga P1,500. Didto nako nagduda katong ila naming gipangayoan og P23,000 para daw sa kandila,” Borres said.

Police Officer 3 Philip Taborado said the complainant can file charges for estafa against the suspects.