Miner hacked to death in Benguet

TUBA, Benguet – A miner was hacked to death by a colleague in Barangay Camp 4 here on Thursday, Oct. 20.

Police identified the victim as Reynante Balusdan Killip of Kibungan, Benguet and Purok 12, Apugan, Irisan, Baguio City.

Witness Fred Charwasen Gumaad, 39, miner, told police that the suspect, Joey Madome, of Hingyon, Ifugao, arrived with his son in a shanty and the victim shared a drink with them.

Gumaad said the two figured in a heated argument until the suspect took a bolo and slashed the victim's motorcycle.

The witness separated the duo and left them after thinking that they have settled their differences.

Gumaad said he was surprised to learn that the victim was found dead in the shanty and the suspect was nowhere to be seen.

Police said the incident occurred at 3:30 a.m. was only reported four hours later at 7:20 a.m.

Col. Damian Olsim, Benguet police chief, said a manhunt for the suspect is under way.