Man killed, cousin injured in stabbing

By: Jennifer P. Rendon

A 29-year-old man was killed while his cousin was injured in a knife attack in Mina, Iloilo evening of Oct. 16, 2019.

Police identified the fatality as Jake Mestidio while his wounded cousin was Joven Pangantihon, 20. Both are residents of Barangay Bangac, where the incident happened.

Police Executive Master Sergeant Joel Flores, Mina deputy police chief, said the victims and another friend, Joey Casipe, were drinking liquor by the roadside when the incident happened.

The three, who were believed to be drunk, began waylaying motorists passing by the area.

While some opted to avoid the three, they apparently met their match in a group of farm workers on board a motorcycle and tricycle.

An altercation happened between the two groups.

A commotion ensued until one of the suspects pulled a knife and stabbed the two victims.

Mestidio suffered injuries on his abdomen, chest and back, while Pangantihon was wounded on his abdomen.

The two were rushed to Iloilo Provincial Hospital in Pototan town.

They were later transferred to Western Visayas Medical Center in Iloilo City but Mestidio was declared dead on arrival.

Flores said they are still negotiating for the surrender of the assailants.