Body with 29 stab wounds found in Quiapo

MANILA, Philippines – The body of an alleged victim of summary execution was discovered in Quiapo, Manila early morning yesterday.

The body was stuffed in a jute sack then placed inside a black trash bag that was left near a department store along Quezon Boulevard in Quiapo. The crew of a passing garbage truck discovered the body and reported it to the police.

Senior Police Officer 2 Benito Cabatbat described the victim as about 5’6” tall; between 25 and 35 years old; of medium build; and with long, straight hair. His body bore several tattoos, two of which are the words “J.R. Sebastian” on his chest and “Sigue-Sigue” on his back.

The victim’s face was covered with packaging tape, while his feet and hands were tied with nylon cord. A piece of paper with the words “Kilabot ng Quiapo (Terror of Quiapo)” was placed beside the victim’s body, which sustained 29 stab wounds.

Cabatbat said the victim could have been killed elsewhere and his body dumped in Quiapo to mislead investigators. – Nestor Etolle