According to Vice Admiral Reuben Lista, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) commandant, initial reports said the incident happened at about 11 a.m. at the mess hall of the MV Filipina Princess owned and operated by the Sulpicio Lines.
The suspect, Victor Kapitan, 32, is now in the custody of the PCG and is undergoing investigation.
Initial report said the vessel was nearing Patikul near Samal island in Davao when the incident happened. The vessel originated from Surigao, the coast guard said.
Reports said Kapitan went wild and attacked passengers Billy Jatico, 52; chief steward Reynaldo Paler, 58; and Bailon Lumayaga, 24.
Jatico and Lumayaga succumbed to blows in the body while Paler is still being treated for a broken arm.
PCG 2Lt. Jason Gill also said authorities have yet to find the reason why the suspect attacked the victims. — With Sandy Araneta