US diplomat stabbed dead in Makati

MANILA, Philippines - A 41-year-old American, reportedly a diplomat, was stabbed dead shortly after figuring in a brawl with four men outside the gate of Bel-Air Village along Kalayaan Avenue in Makati City early yesterday.

George Anico got into an argument with Crispec dela Paz, 28, a student of the De La Salle University; Juan Abastillas, 24; Galicano Datu III, 22, also a DLSU student; and Ospic Caburay, 27, just outside the gate of the village at about 4:20 a.m., police said.

The four men, who were in a Volvo sport utility vehicle (TOJ-886), were being questioned by village security guards when the victim appeared and joined the conversation.

Police said at the height of the argument, Anico allegedly tapped the SUV, causing the suspects to come out of the car and confront him. In the ensuing brawl, Anico was stabbed.

The suspects tried to flee but were arrested after a brief chase by police officers on two motorcycles.

Police said Anico was rushed by rescue workers from Barangay Poblacion and Makati Rescue to the Makati Medical Center. He died from stab wounds at 7:20 a.m. yesterday.

City police chief Senior Superintendent Manuel Lukban said investigators recovered a knife from the SUV of the suspects, who are being detained at the Makati police station.

GMA-7 reported that the United States embassy confirmed that a diplomat had been stabbed in Makati City yesterday but did not name the victim.