Suspect in Mendiola stabbing surrenders

MANILA, Philippines — A suspect in the fatal stabbing of a 15-year-old student in violent riots during the Sept. 21 anti-corruption protest in Mendiola and other parts of Manila surrendered yesterday to authorities.

Richard Francisco, 52, a watch repairman, turned himself in to police.

Justin Ignacio, a Grade 10 student from Barangay Rizal, Taguig City, died from a stab wound at the Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center, the Department of Health had reported.

The stabbing occurred on Sept. 21 at the intersection of Claro M. Recto and Quezon Boulevard amid riots that involved youth groups.

Closed-circuit television footage helped identify Francisco, police said.

Manila Mayor Isko Moreno said Francisco admitted using a knife, which is normally used in repairing watches, out of fear as the unrest spread near his small kiosk.

According to Moreno, Francisco said he was trying to protect both his livelihood and his family as groups of minors allegedly attempted to damage motorcycles and business establishments in the area.

After the video was sent to authorities, Moreno said personnel of the Manila Police District conducted follow-up operations leading to the identification and surrender of the suspect.

The incident has sparked debates online, with some netizens expressing sympathy for Francisco’s efforts to protect his livelihood amid chaotic protests.

Others condemned the act, stressing that claims of self-defense cannot justify the death of a minor.

City officials and community leaders emphasized that while the right to protest is protected, acts of rioting, vandalism and violence undermine public order.

Moreno urged both residents and demonstrators to consider the potential consequences of such actions.

“We must protect the right to protest, but we cannot allow our streets to become battlegrounds. This tragedy should remind us of the value of restraint, of discipline, and of peace,” he said. “There is no justification for any citizen to take the law into their own hands. That is why Richard Francisco is here in front of you. I think this case is resolved.”

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the stabbing and the wider unrest during the anti-corruption protest.