3 men face attempted murder charges for "attacking" friend

CEBU, Philippines - Three men were charged with attempted murder before the Regional Trial Court for allegedly stabbing their friend during a dance three months ago.

The victim, Kristian Dean Padin, first filed a complaint of frustrated murder against Gelacio Tanggaan, George Fernandez, and Mark Abanto but Prosecutor Richard Abangan said medical records do not support the view that Padin suffered fatal injury.

An information for attempted murder was then filed against Tanggaan, Fernandez and Abanto.

Padin claimed the three allegedly attacked him outside during a dance in Carcar last May 10. He sustained several stab wounds and only managed to escape after punching Tanggaan who fell to the ground.

The respondents denied Padin’s accusations, saying the latter was drunk at that time.

Abanto said it was Padin who allegedly slapped him first and hit his chin. When he asked what was his fault was, Padin reportedly replied in an angry voice, “Ugma na lang ta magtiwas Mac!”

Upon hearing the commotion, Fernandez, Abanto’s uncle, approached them and tried to pacify the two but Tanggaan, who was also drunk at that time, came and tried to shoo them away.

Had it not been for Fernandez who stood in between, Padin almost came into blows with Tanggaan. However, just as Fernandez stopped talking, Padin allegedly punched Tanggaan on the chest, causing the latter to fall to the ground.

Tanggaan then stood up, pulled a bladed weapon and stabbed Padin several times. — Jasmin R. Uy/JMO   (THE FREEMAN)