Man kills neighbor over water meter

MANILA, Philippines - A man hacked his neighbor following a drunken argument over a stolen water meter in Quezon City Saturday night, police said yesterday.

Suspect July Sta. Iglesia and his neighbor, Antonio Belgica, were drinking at the former’s house when they had an argument over the meter. The thieves had not yet been identified, according to police.

Because of the argument, Sta. Iglesia left his house. Moments later, Belgica went out to buy a cigarette. Sta. Iglesia allegedly attacked the victim from behind.

Senior Police Officer 2 Roldan Dapa said Belgica, 58, died upon arrival at the Fairview General Hospital from stab and hack wounds in the chest, abdomen, back and head.

Dapat said Sta. Iglesia fled after the attack and remains at large.