Actress’ cousin denies link to attack

MANILA, Philippines - A cousin of actress Angelica dela Cruz, who is running against her for the top post of Barangay Longos, Malabon City, denied any involvement in the attack on her during a campaign sortie on Oct. 19.

Councilman Ruel Santos said it was incidental that Pedro Becondado was wearing his campaign shirt when he reportedly tried to stab Dela Cruz.

“Anybody could have access to those t-shirt since we give it to anybody as part of our campaign strategy. It doesn’t necessarily follow that I have anything to do with it,” Santos said.

Dela Cruz said her bodyguard prevented Becondado from stabbing her, then took her to her car as her supporters ganged up on the suspect. Investigators recovered a knife from Becondado, who is recovering from a stab wound inflicted by one of Dela Cruz’s supporters.

Dela Cruz said the suspect did not say who ordered the attack but she believes it was politically motivated. She filed charges of frustrated murder and violation of the Omnibus Election Code against Becondado last Monday.