Senior Superintendent Pedro Ramos, Malabon police chief, identified the victims as Ronald Canares and Joey Caalino, both 17, and residing in Phase 3, Kaunlaran Village.
The duo are now under observation at the intensive care unit (ICU) of the Tondo Medical Center due to multiple stab wounds and bruises in the body.
Investigation showed the melee erupted at around 12:30 a.m. near the homes of the victims when seven teenagers armed with clubs and knives suddenly emerged and beat up the two without any provocation.
Witnesses told probers the beatings only stopped when the two victims lay bloodied and unconscious on the ground. The suspects quickly fled while bystanders took the victims to the hospital.
It was gathered that the two victims were selling boiled peanuts by the roadside to save money for their enrollment this school opening.
Probers said that earlier in the day, two warring groups clashed near the place. One group, which apparently retreated because they were outnumbered, allegedly called for reinforcements. The victims were probably mistaken for enemies by reponding frat members. – Jerry Botial