Student found dead in bedroom; robbery suspected

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines — The body of a 19-year-old male college student was found decomposing inside his bedroom on March 5.

The victim, whose name is being withheld by The Freeman upon the request of his family, was wrapped in thick blankets when found by his older brother in their house at Purok Sawmill 1 in Brgy. Bata of this city.

Police said the motive for the killing of the student was robbery because his cellphone, laptop, wallet, ATMs and P2,000 cash were missing.

Witnesses' testimonies led to the arrest Wednesday evening of Izhar Castandiello, 37, of Purok Katilingban, in the same barangay.

Police said Castandiello was identified as one of the two suspects, as witnesses claimed he was last seen coming out of the victim's house.

Castandiello, however, vehemently denied the accusations, insisting he was never in that house and did not know the victim. — (FREEMAN)