Painter takes man hostage

MANILA, Philippines - A painter was arrested by the police after he took a man hostage in Quezon City yesterday morning.

Jarper Cruz, 41, was hired to paint in the Castro family’s home in Barangay Greater Fairview just before 10 a.m.

He suddenly entered the bedroom of software engineer Ranizel Castro, 23, who was sleeping at the time, according to Inspector Generoso Rosales of the Fairview police station.

Castro told police Cruz was armed with two screwdrivers and upon entering his room, the painter locked the door and blocked it with a cabinet.

Rosales said Cruz claimed he ran into Castro’s room when he saw “his enemy,” armed with a gun.

He said it took police officers more than 30 minutes to convince Cruz to surrender.

Rosales said police officers were able to enter the bedroom when he offered Cruz a bottle of water and the suspect opened the door.  Cruz did not resist arrest.

Castro was unhurt, Rosales said, adding that the victim’s family is considering whether or not to file charges.