Noy namesake beaten to death in Pasig

MANILA, Philippines - A man who shared the same name and birthday as President Aquino was beaten to death at past midnight yesterday.

Benigno Aquino, who turned 42 on Feb. 8, was on his way home with companion Sammy Ureg after celebrating his birthday when they were attacked by five men in Barangay Kapitolyo at around 1:40 a.m. yesterday. Ureg said he ran away because they were outnumbered and he thought the attackers were armed with knives.

The victim, who was a driver, was declared dead on arrival at the Rizal Medical Center (RMC).

Senior Inspector Glenn Magsino, Pasig police investigation chief, said he was shocked upon receiving initial reports that a certain Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino was killed and his body brought to the RMC.

City police chief Senior Superintendent Jesse Cardona said they have arrested Voltaire Panugot, 35; and Isagani Laurenciano, 34. Investigators said they admitted beating up the victim for thrills, but denied knowing the three other alleged attackers. The two men are being held at the Pasig City detention cell pending the filing of murder charges against them.