Farmer dies by suicide after stabbing drinking buddy

By Jennifer P. Rendon

A 40-year-old farmer allegedly died by suicide after stabbing his drinking companion in Anilao, Iloilo.

The body of 40-year-old Aliaa Bukay was discovered around 7:30 a.m. on Aug. 28 inside his home at Sitio Marka Bubog, Barangay Balunos, a remote village approximately 12 kilometers from Anilao town.

Police believe he had been dead for several hours when found.

According to police reports, Bukay was involved in a stabbing incident that occurred at 7:30 p.m. on Aug. 27 in Balunos village.

Bukay and a man identified as Melchor, along with three other friends, were drinking at their neighbor Bimbo’s house.

Melchor left the drinking table to urinate.

Shortly afterward, Bukay followed and stabbed him three times in the stomach and chest.

Bukay fled immediately after the incident.

Their friend Jeryl said no altercation occurred between the two men.

Master Sgt. Richie Bretaña, Anilao police investigator, said village officials confirmed the duo were friends with no history of conflict.

“They didn’t know any logical reason why the suspect attacked the victim,” Bretaña said.

However, Bukay’s family revealed he was suffering from a nervous breakdown.

He also exhibited suicidal tendencies, according to relatives.

Bretaña said Bukay’s family believes no foul play was involved in his death.

Melchor is now in stable condition after undergoing surgery at Western Visayas Medical Center in Iloilo City.

The incident highlights ongoing mental health challenges in rural communities, where access to psychological support services remains limited.

Police continue investigating the circumstances surrounding both the stabbing and Bukay’s subsequent death.