Two laborers stabbed dead in Binalbagan

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines—A drunken argument turned fatal when two laborers were stabbed to death by a companion in Purok Orchids, Barangay Santol, Binalbagan, Negros Occidental, on Thursday.

Police identified the victims as “Arnel,” 25, and “Lemping,” 61, both residents of the village.

Police Capt. Joelan Vinson, Binalbagan police chief, said the victims were drinking with three others, including the 30-year-old suspect identified as “Joelyn,” on Thursday night.

Vinson said the group was on its way home when an argument broke out between Joelyn and Lemping, allegedly angering the suspect.

The suspect allegedly pulled out a knife and stabbed Lemping in the back and leg, Vinson said.

Arnel tried to intervene and pacify the situation but was also reportedly stabbed in the chest and back.

Vinson said Arnel was declared dead at a hospital, while Lemping succumbed to his injuries the following day.

The suspect also attempted to attack a witness, but the individual managed to flee, according to police.

Barangay watchmen arrested Joelyn and later turned him over to the police, although authorities were unable to recover the weapon used in the attack.

Police are preparing murder charges against the suspect, who told investigators he was allegedly being teased by his companions, prompting the attack.