Friendship Shattered in Violent Cebu Confrontation
A close friendship turned violent in Sitio Lumbani, Barangay Guadalupe, Cebu City, when a 19-year-old painter attacked his 28-year-old friend with a wooden bar. The incident occurred at approximately 7:00 PM on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, leaving the victim with serious head injuries.
The Phone Dispute That Sparked Violence
According to police reports and suspect statements, the confrontation began over a shared mobile phone that belonged to their cousin. The suspect, identified as alias Boy, 19, wanted to message his girlfriend but claimed the victim, alias Martin, 28, made offensive comments during the exchange.
The suspect confessed during his interview with SunStar Superbalita Cebu that Martin's "bad stories" during his attempt to chat with his girlfriend triggered his anger. This phone dispute, combined with pre-existing personal conflicts between the two friends, escalated rapidly into physical violence.
Violent Attack and Emergency Response
In a fit of rage, Boy struck Martin in the forehead with a wooden bar. The victim managed to escape what could have been a second blow as the suspect attempted to strike again. Martin immediately sought help from neighbors, who promptly alerted the authorities.
The Guadalupe Police Station 9 responded quickly to the emergency call and apprehended the suspect at the scene. Martin, a construction worker, sustained a significant forehead wound from the attack and received medical attention.
Legal Consequences and Ongoing Investigation
Boy now faces frustrated murder charges and is currently detained at the Guadalupe Police Station. The case highlights how quickly personal disputes can escalate into serious criminal situations.
Police investigation continues into the incident, examining both the immediate phone-related argument and the longer-standing personal issues between the two former friends. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of conflict resolution and anger management in community settings.
