ILOILO – A mayoral candidate in the municipality of Miag-ao, Iloilo was arrested on Tuesday in Barangay Baybay Norte of the town for six counts of estafa.
According to 52-year-old Anthony Ticorda, the case had long been settled but the court was likely not formally informed about this, thus his arrest.
“Kagamay nga kaso. Settled na ina galing lang may mga papeles nga wala maasikaso. Indi ako malain nga tawo kag indi ako kriminal,” said Ticorda.
He was arrested by personnel of the Sara and Miag-ao municipal police stations at around 12:30 p.m.
The arrest warrant was issued by Judge Gonzalo Espa of the Municipal Circuit Trial Court (MCTC), Sara-Ajuy -Lemery.
“Matinlo ang akon pagkatawo that’s why pag-arrest sa akon sang pulis willing ako nga nag-upod. Thankful ako sa mga pulis kay they are professional,” Ticorda told Panay News.
Ticorda was charged with six counts of estafa, with a recommended bail of P18,000 for each count.
Ticorda believed his arrest was “politically motivated” and a form of “character assassination”.
“Pero sports lang ako ah. Sadyahon ta ang eleksyon, wala lang away. I really support the government for peaceful elections,” said Ticorda was immediately released after paying P108,000 bail bond.
Ticorda is running for mayor against former 1st District congressman Richard Garin./PN