Pandi, Bulacan Mayor Enrico Roque Arrested on R*pe Charges
ENRICO ROQUE – The mayor of Pandi, Bulacan, was arrested by the Northern Police District (NPD) on Tuesday evening, December 17, 2024, following a warrant issued by the Caloocan Regional Trial Court for r*pe charges.
Police Colonel Satur Ediong, Director of the Bulacan Police Provincial Office, confirmed the arrest, along with two other individuals: Pandi Councilor JonJon Roxas and Roel Raymundo. According to reports, the suspects cooperated peacefully during the arrest and are now in NPD custody.
Metro Manila Police Chief PBGen Anthony Aberin emphasized that the operation demonstrates the principle that “no one is above the law.” He assured the public that the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) remains committed to pursuing justice without bias.
Mayor Roque’s legal team dismissed the charges as baseless and politically motivated. They have filed a motion to quash the arrest warrant and related charges. Court records obtained by PEP.ph revealed that the r*pe complaint against Roque was approved for trial in May 2024, with no bail recommended.
Apart from his political career, Mayor Roque is a film producer and owner of CineKo Productions, known for producing films such as Family Matters (2022) and Family of Two (2023). The arrest has sparked public interest due to Roque’s dual prominence in politics and the entertainment industry. As legal proceedings move forward, the case continues to draw attention nationwide.
Meanwhile, the penalties for r*pe in the Philippines are severe. If someone is convicted of r*pe, they could face reclusion perpetua—a prison sentence of 20 to 40 years. However, if the crime involves aggravating factors, such as the offender being a relative or the victim being particularly vulnerable, the penalty can be even harsher. In these cases, the law seeks to ensure that justice is served and that the perpetrator is held accountable for the harm they’ve caused.