Ma kills self after getting punched by son

CEBU, Philippines - Amid the celebration of Women’s Month, a 56-year-old mother committed suicide due to alleged unsettled family problem early morning yesterday in Barangay San Nicolas, Cebu, City.

Erlinda Garcia Villamor, a “poso” (hanging rice) maker, was found hanging dead with a nylon rope tied around her neck at the Taboan Public Market.

Police investigation revealed that in the evening of February 26, the victim was punched in the face by her son, Julieto, while she and her husband, Bertulfo, were having an argument at the market.

The incident allegedly prompted Erlinda to go to the barangay hall to file a physical injuries complaint against her son.

Last Wednesday afternoon, a hearing was held at the San Nicolas barangay hall where the victim and her family tried to settle their problem.

However, minutes later, the victim allegedly walked out of the barangay hall and was heard by her daughter, Gina, saying that she would commit suicide.

At almost 3 a.m. yesterday, Erlinda was found hanging already dead from the roof of a store at the Taboan Public Market.

The victim’s cadaver was taken to the Saint Francis Funeral Homes for autopsy to determine if there are indications of a foul play. — Niña G. Sumacot/WAB (THE FREEMAN)