A radio commentator in Talisay City, Cebu, was arrested for alleged extortion related to the upcoming May 2025 elections.
According to police report, the suspect, identified as Roger Cimafranca, allegedly demanded P4 million from his rival in the mayoral race in exchange for withdrawing his candidacy.
“Let me be clear, withdrawal is not important to me. I’m ready to face an election anytime,” said incumbent Talisay City Mayor Gerald Anthony Gullas, Jr., who filed the complaint against Cimafranca.
Cimafranca and his companion were apprehended during an entrapment operation conducted by the Philippine National Police-Criminal Detection and Investigation Group (PNP-CIDG).
The suspect denied the accusations, claiming in Cebuano, “Someone called me, but I didn’t know who it was. He asked me to withdraw for P4 million. Then I told him that I will think about it.”
The duo now faces charges of robbery and extortion.