Manila councilor's teen volunteer stabbed dead

MANILA, Philippines - A 16-year-old volunteer who worked for a Manila councilor was killed while his companion was injured when they were reportedly attacked by at least 15 members of a street gang in Tondo, Manila Sunday night.

John Paul Jose, who helped Councilor Abel Viceo in various projects, was declared dead on arrival at the Ospital ng Tondo due to stab wounds.

His companion, Kevin Acosta, 16, sustained a gaping head wound, but was sent home after treatment. Both are members of the Ghettos Crime street gang, according to police.

Police Officer 3 Jaime Gonzales Jr. said the two victims attended a birthday party of one of their female friends Sunday night. After the party, the victims and their companions were walking home along Solis street when they were attacked by at least 15 teenagers armed with bladed weapons.

Acosta was able to seek refuge at a nearby barangay hall. He told police he saw how the attackers ganged up on Jose and took turns stabbing him. He told police he could recognize the attackers if he sees them again.

Homicide section head Chief Inspector Erwin Margarejo said the attackers could be members of the rival gang but refused to name names pending the arrest of Jose’s attackers.        – Nestor Etolle