Photographer mauled after taking ‘bigayan’ photos

A photographer of the Philippine Daily Inquirer was mauled by a group of Muslims whom he photographed receiving money from their alleged leader at the Rizal Park rally yesterday.

Police picked up for questioning two of the suspects, Muhammad Nash Gousi, 37, and Joe Malic, 22, both of 117 E. Rodriguez st., Quezon City on the complaint of Randy Hormillosa.

Hormillosa said he noticed a group of Muslims gathered in front of the Manila Hotel at about 5:15 p.m. As he approached them, he said he saw their leader handing over P500 and P100 bills to those around him.

When he took pictures, the Muslims saw him. They then immediately ran after him, kicking and punching him while at the same time trying to grab his camera, the victim said.

Responding Manila policemen saved Hormillosa from further harm. Police also recovered his camera and other paraphernalia.

The suspects asked Hormillosa not to publish the picture since it would create an impression that they were paid to attend yesterday’s rally. They, however, refused to say why they were given money by their leader. – Non Alquitran