Longtime Feud Leads to Tragic Stabbing in Tondo; Suspect Surrenders

Photo courtesy of Manila Bulletin

In a tragic turn of events in Tondo, Manila, a 56-year-old man has surrendered to authorities after allegedly fatally stabbing a Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) personnel. The Manila Police District (MPD) confirmed on Thursday, 17th July, that the suspect, known only by the alias "Nivy", turned himself in amid a manhunt.

Hailing from Cebu City and residing on H. Barrio Menu Street, the suspect approached police major Edward Samonte of the MPD-Special Mayor’s Reaction Team. His surrender follows a stabbing incident that occurred on 13th July around 2:45 p.m. on Dagupan Street, Barangay 48, Tondo.

The victim, 55-year-old Rosauro, a member of the MMDA Demolition Team and a local resident, was reportedly at a store when he was confronted by the suspect. An argument quickly intensified, leading to the suspect stabbing Rosauro multiple times. This brutal act was caught on a nearby CCTV camera.

Witnesses indicated that the two men, who had been familiar with each other since childhood, were embroiled in a longstanding feud. This personal grudge is currently considered the primary motive behind the heinous crime.

In the immediate aftermath, the suspect fled. However, the MPD Moriones Police Station 2, led by Lt. Col. Gilbert Cruz, swiftly initiated a follow-up operation. Simultaneously, teams from the MPD-SMaRT, coordinated by Police Major Kherwin Evangelista and Police Captain Edgar Julian, conducted a separate search effort.

With information provided by an informant, authorities pinpointed the suspect’s location at a temporary shelter on Oroquieta Street near Recto Avenue in Sta. Cruz, Manila. He peacefully surrendered and was transported to the MPD-SMaRT office at Manila City Hall, where he was identified by a witness.

Police Lt. Col. Damaso Burgos, MPD-DIMD officer-in-charge, supervised the arrest. It emerged that the suspect had previously been released from detention over drug-related charges. He now faces a murder charge and remains in custody at the Homicide Section of MPD headquarters.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, highlighting the deep-seated personal conflicts that can lead to violence. Authorities are continuing their investigation, gathering further evidence and testimonies to strengthen the case.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the family and colleagues of the late Rosauro mourn his untimely death, while residents of the area are urged to unite against violence and seek peaceful resolutions to disputes.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-07-17