The Police Regional Office-2 has initiated an investigation into two Land Transportation Office (LTO) officials in Region 2 (Cagayan Valley) for allegedly assaulting three young individuals at a karaoke lounge on June 4.

The incident occurred at 8:57 p.m. in a hotel karaoke lounge in Barangay Caggay, as confirmed by PRO-2 Director Police Brig Gen. Antonio Marallag Jr. The victims were identified as Vanessa, a 20-year-old singer, Rey, a 15-year-old boy, and Christopher, 20.

According to reports, the victims were enjoying themselves in the karaoke lounge when LTO-Region 2 Assistant Regional Director Manuel Baricaua and Chief Enforcer Charles Ursulum approached Vanessa while she was singing. Baricaua allegedly touched her around the waist, causing her to move away due to discomfort.

Ursulum then insisted that Vanessa sit next to the Regional Director, a request she declined. When Vanessa's mother, Mary, intervened, Ursulum persisted, leading to a confrontation. The situation escalated when Baricaua and Ursulum slapped Rey and Christopher without provocation, with one of them kicking Christopher in the chest. Despite the aggression, the victims chose not to retaliate and returned to their seats.

Further escalating the situation, one of the officials reportedly pulled Mary's hair when she tried to intervene. Following the incident, the victims sought legal assistance and filed a complaint with the City Prosecutor's Office on June 13, accompanied by a medico-legal report as evidence.

The complaint is set to be endorsed to the Office of the Prosecutor on June 16, 2025. PRO-2 Director Marallag condemned the incident, emphasizing a commitment to a fair and thorough investigation to ensure justice for the victims.

Baricaua and Ursulum are facing charges of unjust vexation, slight physical injury, and violation of Republic Act 7610, which protects children from abuse, exploitation, and discrimination. This incident marks the latest in a series involving LTO officials, following a previous viral incident with an official from Baguio in a drunk driving case.