A man was arrested in the early hours of Monday after repeatedly striking his coworker with a wooden plank, reportedly due to bullying over his physical appearance.
According to Police Captain Joel Madregalejo, officer-in-charge of the Station Investigation Section of the Navotas City Police, the suspect, identified only as “Melchor,” was arrested after concerned citizens reported that a man was found lying on the ground after a violent altercation.
“As our police arrived, the victim was seen lying down, who was still conscious, but a bit weak already,” Madregalejo said.
Based on the police spot report, the suspect struck the victim at the back of the head with a 51-inch-long piece of lumber commonly referred to as “dos por dos,” causing him to collapse. Witnesses said the suspect continued to strike the victim even after he had fallen to the ground, before walking away still carrying the wooden plank.
“He (suspect) suddenly hit the victim, but some of the witnesses said they had a previous argument,” the police added.
The 53-year-old victim, who is Melchor’s coworker on the boat, is currently confined at Navotas City Hospital after sustaining hemorrhage and bruises on various parts of his body.
Melchor claimed he attacked the victim because he was being mocked for his appearance, saying the victim repeatedly called him "bakulaw"—which translates to "ape" in English.
“He (victim) also repeatedly threatened and disrespected my live-in partner, which is why she’s now afraid to go outside,” the suspect added.
Aside from the recent assault, Madregalejo said the suspect has a criminal record and has been in and out of prison, primarily for illegal gambling offenses.
Melchor also admitted to being under the influence of illegal drugs at the time of the incident, though he denied consuming alcohol.
He will face a charge of frustrated homicide as he awaits the commitment order from the local court.