The Tuguegarao Component City Police Station on Friday clarified that initial verification showed the viral video showing a man physically assaulting a woman did not take place within the city’s jurisdiction, contrary to earlier concerns that prompted local authorities to launch an investigation.
The clarification came after Tuguegarao City Mayor Maila Ting-Que directed police to verify the authenticity of the now-deleted Facebook Live video and ensure the safety of the victim.
“I have directed the Tuguegarao Police to investigate, verify the facts and ensure the safety and welfare of the victim in a video aired live earlier in the day showing disturbing violent behavior by a vlogger,” the mayor said in a post on Thursday night (July 23).
According to the Tuguegarao police, officers went to the address associated with the social media account that uploaded the video as part of their validation efforts.
Initial findings, however, indicated that the incident did not take place in Tuguegarao City.
Despite this, police said coordination with the appropriate authorities remains ongoing to establish the full facts and circumstances surrounding the incident and determine the identities and whereabouts of those involved.
The video, which circulated widely on social media before the account that posted it was deleted, showed a man physically assaulting his wife, including pulling her hair and verbally abusing her.
Authorities have yet to confirm when and where the incident occurred, and no official information has been released on whether the suspect has been arrested or if criminal charges have been filed.
"The Tuguegarao Component City Police Station strongly condemns all forms of violence," the police said in a statement.
"We remain steadfast in our commitment to upholding the rule of law, protecting the rights of every individual, and ensuring that justice is served," it added.
Police also urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified information or drawing premature conclusions while the investigation is ongoing.
"Let us allow due process to take its course," the statement said.
