Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama (CDN PHOTO/ TONEE DESPOJO)
Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama said he’s keeping his hands off the conflict between his eldest brother Fernando and an American customer, whom Fernando punched at a fast-food outlet in barangay San Nicholas, Cebu City.
“I told him to look for a lawyer and discuss it with him. I can’t defend him in court because I’m the mayor. I would be biased,” Rama said.
Fernando, 78, faces a charge of physical injuries filed by 76-year-old Henri Angers of Massachusetts after a confrontation last June 14.
In his complaint, Angers said he had breakfast in the restaurant when Fernando entered and told a security guard to line up and order for him.
“I don’t like someone using people for their own benefit. I was able to get my own coffee and my own breakfast, why can’t he?” Angers said in a phone interview.
Angers said he called the guard and told him he didn’t have to do it.
A male customer asked the guard what Angers said and then called a traffic aide outside the restaurant. The guard just stared at Angers and did nothing.
This angered Fernando, who then poured a cup of coffee on the American’s face and punched him.
The security guard pacified them and brought them to the nearest police precinct.
A relative who requested anonymity said Fernando Rama is a retired US citizen who frequents Cebu and Ormoc city where his children are staying.