Woman stabbed dead by husband

CEBU, Philippines — A 42-year-old woman was killed after she was stabbed allegedly by her husband inside a modern jeepney on Saturday night, December 28, 2024, in Barangay Ibo, Lapu-Lapu City.

The victim was a native of Argao town but was residing in Sitio Mahayahay, Barangay Bankal, Lapu-Lapu City.

The suspect, a 44-year-old man, is the husband of the victim and resides in Barangay Maribago, Lapu-Lapu City.

The suspect allegedly used a sharp weapon to stab the victim.

According to Police Lieutenant Colonel Christian Torres, spokesperson for the Lapu-Lapu City Police Office, the victim and the suspect had been separated for 12 years.

However, despite their separation, it was reported that the husband secretly followed his wife to check if she had a new lover.

"Gasunod-sunod kini, continuous gihapon ang threat sa bana. Wala ka move-on ba, gasige gihapon ug sunod-sunod, sige gihapon siya ug kuan kun kinsay laki sa iyang asawa,” said Torres.

Prior to the incident, it was reported that the victim boarded a modern jeepney at a mall in Mandaue City.

The man reportedly followed the victim and also boarded the same modern jeepney.

"Giingnan pa gani sa asawa ang driver nga ayaw na pasakya,” Torres added.

When they reached the said area, the husband suddenly stabbed his wife using a sharp weapon.

The wife sustained six stab wounds to various parts of her body.

The incident also caused tension and commotion, which resulted in the death of another 53-year-old woman who suffered a heart attack while attempting to get off the modern jeepney.

However, the police are still waiting for the results of the medical examination since it was reported that the 53-year-old female passenger vomited blood before she passed away.

After the incident, it was reported that the suspect quickly fled the scene.

However, during the police's hot pursuit operation, the suspect was arrested at his workplace, a private school in Mandaue City, on Sunday dawn, December 29, 2024.

The suspect denied the allegations and claimed that he was at his workplace during the incident, attending a Christmas party.

However, the driver and conductor of the modern jeepney confirmed the identity of the suspect.

In addition, the police are also verifying reports that the driver and the suspect are allegedly in a relationship.

The suspect is currently imprisoned in a detention facility and is scheduled to face charges of parricide.

In response, Lapu-Lapu City Mayor Junard "Ahong" Chan expressed his despair over the incident, noting that what happened is unfortunate and not what the city aims for.

“Lapu-Lapu City has long been recognized as a peaceful and welcoming destination, where both local and international tourists can explore with confidence and without fear,” said Chan in his official statement yesterday, December 29.

“This unfortunate event is an isolated case and does not reflect the safety and security standards we diligently uphold in our community,” he added.

Chan shared that he has already instructed Lapu-Lapu City Police Office Director, Police Colonel Dyan Agustin, to conduct a thorough investigation and take appropriate action against the suspect.

The city mayor also assured the public that this matter is being handled with the utmost seriousness and entrusted the police force to carry out their investigation diligently and effectively.

“Once again, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families affected by this tragedy. We remain committed to maintaining the peace and security that Lapu-Lapu City is known for, ensuring it remains a safe haven for all residents and visitors alike,” Chan said.

Meanwhile, Lapu-Lapu City’s Lone District Congresswoman Ma. Cynthia “Cindi” King-Chan also released a statement expressing her sorrow over the incident.

According to the congresswoman, the incident that the woman endured is deeply saddening and heartbreaking.

“Atong gikondinar ang maong walay kaluoy nga pagkutlo sabililhong kinabuhi labi na nga naa intawon siyay gibilin nga mgaanak nga malipayon pa kaayu sila nga nag selebrar sa Pasko,” said the congresswoman in her statement.

She added that, together with Mayor Chan, they vow to do everything possible, with the help of the authorities, to ensure that justice is served for the victim's death. (CEBU NEWS)