Boxer held for raping girl, 14

MANILA, Philippines — A professional boxer accused of raping a 14-year-old girl was arrested in Cebu City on Wednesday night.

Albert Pagara, a native of Leyte, was apprehended at his residence in Barangay Inawayan after the mother of the victim reported the incident.

Pagara is the current WBO Intercontinental Super Bantamweight champion.

Lt. Wilbert Parilla, Cebu City police deputy director for operations, said Pagara denied the allegations, but admitted during an interview with the Women and Children’s Protection Desk that he “touched” the victim.

Pagara is being held at the Pardo police station. – /The Freeman