PBA Player Fran Yu Speaks Out on Altercation with Barangay Kagawad
FRAN YU – The professional basketball player has denied accusations that he physically harmed a barangay official during an altercation in Barangay 350, Sta. Cruz, Manila.
Yu, who plays for NorthPort Batang Pier, explained in an interview with ABS-CBN News that the dispute stemmed from a misunderstanding regarding motorcycle parking outside a fast-food restaurant in Vertex One, San Lazaro. According to Yu, he had just finished practice and stopped by the restaurant, where he regularly parks. However, a barangay tanod aggressively confronted him, instructing him to move his motorcycle.
Barangay Chairman Efleda Dela Cruz confirmed that he had directed a kagawad to inform Yu that parking in the area was prohibited. The discussion escalated when more barangay personnel intervened, including Kagawad Victorino Farrales.
Yu clarified that he had already been following the instructions given by the first barangay tanod and denied any physical aggression toward Farrales or the barangay tanod. He explained that during the exchange, the tanod lost his balance and fell into a gutter, leading to allegations that Yu had pushed him.
“Nahulog siya, na-atras siya eh. Kasi dapat ililipat ko na yung motor, tapos hinawakan ako ng kagawad sa braso ko. Hindi ko alam kung sa kanan o sa kaliwa, eh siyempre bilang pag protekta ko na lang rin sa sarili ko, ayun,” Yu stated.
The situation further escalated when a man, identifying himself as Yu’s father, arrived at the scene, leading to another round of pushing between both parties. Farrales later claimed he sustained injuries from the incident.
Yu maintains his innocence, asserting that several witnesses, as well as security footage from the establishment, can confirm his version of events. He also revealed plans to undergo a medico-legal examination, similar to Farrales, to document any injuries he may have sustained during the commotion.
Barangay officials have announced their intention to file charges against Yu. However, the basketball player remains firm in his stance, emphasizing that he neither provoked nor physically harmed anyone during the incident.
Related Post: Kamote Rider Apprehends & Slams Car Driver Who Confronted Him for Illegal Parking