Farmer torched while sleeping

CEBU, Philippines –  A farmer landed in the hospital after his long-time enemy poured gasoline over him and torched him in the middle of his sleep midday yesterday.

The incident happened in Barangay Talaga in the southern town of Argao.

Paquito Alcarez, 54, was awakened by the intense pain and ran outside his house screaming for help, his body already afire. His neighbors poured water over him, but he already sustained third degree burns on his head, face, neck, arms, and stomach.

He was brought to the Panople Medical Clinic for treatment.

Alcarez pointed to Emeterio Dayap, 82, as the suspect, saying the old man was still at his house when he was awakened. Alcarez and Dayap are said to be long-time enemies.

PO2 Von Tecson of the Argao police said the most recent disagreement between the two was over a mango tree Dayap that Alcarez reportedly cut down yesterday.

Alcarez cut the tree down reportedly because it was already dead and he feared it would fall down and endanger the children who liked climbing and playing near it. This, however, irked Dayap because the tree was reportedly planted by his mother.

According to PO2 Von Tecson of Argao Police Station, Alcarez was taking a nap when Dayap went into his house, poured gasoline over him and torched him.

The suspect’s children and grandchildren subsequently located Dayap and turned him over to barangay officials who turned him over to the Argao police.

Dayap reportedly admitted his actions to his family.   Authorities are still studying what charges to file against the suspect. (FREEMAN)