Worker slain by cousin in Quezon City

For refusing to go along with his drinking buddy’s idea not to pay the bill, a 26-year-old construction worker was stabbed dead by his own cousin yesterday morning in Quezon City.

Totoy Orbaneja, a resident of Pacita street in North Fairview, sustained stab wounds in the body and was pronounced dead on arrival at the National Orthopedic Hospital.

Police are now hunting the suspect, Rey Orbaneja, the victim’s cousin and co-worker, who fled after the stabbing.

Initial investigation showed that the incident took place at about 1:45 a.m. in a karaoke bar on Banawe street, Quezon City. Orbaneja and the suspect, along with four other co-workers, were having a drinking spree.

The suspect suggested they leave the place without paying the bill. Orbaneja, however, cautioned them not to and talked them into paying.

The suspect confronted his cousin and a heated argument ensued. Cooler heads prevailed and the group started walking to the construction site they were working at on Speaker Perez street. – Matthew Estabillo