TV director's alleged attacker pleads not guilty

MANILA, Philippines - The man accused of stabbing television director Ricky Rivero on June 13 pleaded not guilty yesterday before the Quezon City regional trial court.

Hans Ivan Ruiz, 22, entered separate pleas of not guilty to the charges of frustrated murder and theft when he was arraigned before Judge Marilyn Payoyo-Villordon, with Rivero in attendance.

Court records show that Ruiz was able to post bail for frustrated homicide at P200,000 and P24,000 for theft.

When the attack happened, the victim was able to run out of his apartment for help as village  watchmen arrested Ruiz. Police recovered Rivero’s belongings – including a backpack, a laptop with and a cell phone – from Rivero.