A joke about a wife ends in tragedy for a village watchman in Isabela

• A 45-year-old barangay tanod was killed after being hacked by his drinking companion in Cauayan City, Isabela on Tuesday afternoon
• The suspect, a 44-year-old construction worker, allegedly took offense at a joke regarding his wife’s alleged infidelity
• The victim sustained seven wounds to his head and back and was declared dead on arrival at a nearby hospital
• Local authorities are currently conducting a manhunt for the suspect who fled the scene and faces murder charges

What was supposed to be a relaxed afternoon of drinking among friends turned into a bloody crime scene in Barangay San Antonio, Cauayan City. On Tuesday, February 3, at around 3:00 PM, a local barangay tanod lost his life after a joke reportedly cut deeper than intended.

According to police investigations, the 45-year-old victim was sharing drinks with five other men when the atmosphere suddenly shifted. The suspect, a 44-year-old construction worker, grew silent and walked away after being teased about a sensitive family matter.

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The tension stemmed from a remark made by the victim regarding the suspect’s wife. Police Major Christian Felix, the Public Information Officer of PNP Cauayan City, shared the details of the provocation: “Ang sinabi ng victim, ‘yung lalaking umagaw sa asawa mo, nandiyan lang, nagpapabahay, wala ka naman magawa, wala na akong bilib sa’yo’, parang ganun ang nasabi.”

Deeply insulted, the suspect left the group, only to return moments later armed with a bolo. He allegedly blindsided the victim, who was eating at the time. The watchman was struck repeatedly, sustaining seven wounds across his head and back. Although he was rushed to the hospital in hopes of saving his life, doctors declared him dead on arrival.

Barangay tanods, like the victim, serve as the first line of defense in Philippine communities. They are often tasked with maintaining peace and order at the grassroots level, usually without the protection of firearms. Ironically, in this instance, the very peace the victim was sworn to protect was shattered within his own circle of friends.

The suspect fled immediately after the attack. Local police are now conducting hot pursuit operations to bring the construction worker to justice, as he is expected to face a formal charge of murder.

If you found this story concerning, you might also want to look into other recent incidents involving heated disputes that turned physical. These cases serve as a somber reminder of how quickly arguments can escalate.

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A tragic dispute between a nephew and his uncle in Negros Oriental ended in a double fatality after the two engaged in a violent hacking match. Authorities reported that long-standing family issues triggered the confrontation, leaving both men dead at the scene. This incident highlights the devastating impact of unresolved domestic conflicts within rural communities.

A man was recently arrested for hacking another individual after he was allegedly insulted and called a "horse." The suspect claimed he could no longer bear the constant bullying and name-calling from the victim, leading to the violent outburst. Police reminded the public that verbal provocations do not justify physical violence and have filed the necessary charges.

Source: KAMI.com.gh