Man, 64, dies after jumping off bridge

MANILA, Philippines - A 64-year-old man, who allegedly missed his wife and son who had left him, ended his life yesterday by jumping off a bridge that connects barangay Babag II in Lapu-Lapu City and Cordova town.

Police identified the man as Olimpio Reyes.

Police said Reyes and friend Hermelando Laurente were drinking early morning that day.

While at it, Reyes allegedly told Laurente how he missed his wife who is now in Mindanao and son who is now abroad, police said.

Police said Reyes had said he had not seen his wife and son for many years, and that he felt they had abandoned him.

Reyes lived with a house help who looked after him. Her salary was paid by Reyes’ son.

And then, without a word, Reyes stood up and walked away from Laurente toward the bridge.

There he jumped and disappeared in the water.

He was found thirty minutes later. –(FREEMAN)