Criminology student robs cabbie in Marikina

MANILA, Philippines – A criminology student’s dream of becoming a policeman ended when he was arrested after he allegedly robbed a taxi driver of his income for the day and other belongings in Marikina City Thursday, a police official said Friday.

Ericson Armendi, 22, “could only enter the police force once he is acquitted of the charges against him. But since the case is a robbery, it would be very hard for him to become a policeman,” Eastern Police District director Chief Superintendent Miguel Laurel said in an interview.

According to a police report, Armendi flagged down a Ryan Patrick taxi driven by Romeo Doinog, 49, along Jerusalem street in St. Claire subdivision, Barangay Marikina Heights at around 10:45 p.m. Thursday and pleaded with the driver to help him bring his ailing grandmother to the San Lazaro Hospital in Manila.

Doinog was hesitant to take a passenger because of the rampant muggings in the area but relented because of Armendi’s pleas. However, Armendi later pulled out a handgun and took Doinog’s earnings, cell phone, jewelry and wallet.

Another motorist, however, saw Armendi pointing a gun at Doinog’s head and reported it to police officers, who set up a checkpoint to catch Armendi.

Doinog said he pleaded for his life as Armendi grabbed his money, jewelry and cell phone.

Police officers cornered Armendi at his house on Jerusalem street, not far from where he flagged down Doinog. Armendi’s parents convinced him to surrender. Police officers seized Armendi’s handgun and the loot he took from Doinog.

Armendi has been detained at the Marikina City police detention center pending the filing of a robbery case against him.