Farmer dies after setting self on fire

CEBU, Philippines - A 47-year-old man ended his life by allegedly setting himself on fire in Barangay Napo, Carcar City yesterday evening.

Roger Gemuta, a farmer and a resident of the place, reportedly lit dry coconut leaves and cogon grass then set it on his body.

According to Police Officer 2 Allan Villasorda of Carcar Police Station, one of Gemuta’s relatives alleged that few days ago, the victim who appeared to be problematic, asked to be alone.

Last Saturday morning, Gemuta, who was single, allegedly went to his farm in Upper Taclod to feed his goats. He did not return home in the evening, prompting the family to worry.

Jonathan Genandoy, a nephew of Gemuta, was instructed by the family to follow his uncle to his farm to know what has happened to him.

Genandoy heeded, but before he could have reached the farm, he allegedly saw Gemuta set some dry leave and cogon grass in fire that caught his body.

Genandoy immediately sought for help from his relatives but when they came back, Gemuta was already dead.

Police Officer 2 Villasorda said they will conduct further investigation on the incident although they initially did not find any foul play surrounding the victim’s death.  (FREEMAN)