Oslob Stabbing Incident: Fish Vendor Arrested for Frustrated Homicide Following Alleged Bullying
In a violent altercation that has shocked the local community, a 35-year-old man was stabbed by his neighbor in Oslob City, Cebu, leading to an arrest for frustrated homicide. The incident occurred on Sunday morning, February 8, 2026, at Purok Azucena, Barangay Lagunde, highlighting the dangers of unresolved personal conflicts.
Details of the Attack and Victim's Condition
The victim, identified as Rodel Amat Cabus, 35, single but with dependents, sustained a stab wound to the left side of his back during the confrontation. He was initially rushed to the local municipal clinic for emergency treatment but was later transferred to the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC) in Cebu City due to the severity of his injuries. Medical personnel at VSMMC are currently monitoring his condition, with reports indicating he is in stable but critical care.
Suspect's Background and Arrest
The suspect, Edwin Suycano Clemente, 40, a single fish vendor, was promptly apprehended and is now detained at the Oslob Police Station. He is facing formal charges of frustrated homicide, a serious offense under Philippine law that could result in significant penalties if convicted. Police investigations reveal that Clemente and Cabus were not only neighbors but also coworkers, both involved in making balusters for houses, adding a layer of complexity to their relationship.
Root Causes of the Conflict
According to authorities, the stabbing stemmed from a long-standing personal dispute between the two men, exacerbated by alcohol consumption. Major Alejandro Batobalonos, who spoke to Sunstar Superbalita Cebu, explained that the victim and suspect were friends who often socialized together. However, tensions had been brewing, particularly during drinking sessions where Cabus allegedly engaged in bullying behavior toward Clemente.
On the morning of the incident, Cabus went to Clemente's residence, leading to a heated argument. Clemente warned Cabus not to enter his home, but Cabus insisted and forced his way inside. This act of intrusion reportedly pushed Clemente over the edge, prompting him to stab Cabus in a fit of rage. Clemente later confessed to police that he had been bottling up his anger, especially after being mocked by Cabus while selling fish, until he could no longer tolerate it.
Community and Police Response
Major Batobalonos emphasized that the suspect had reached a breaking point due to persistent bullying, stating, "He was fed up because he was always being bullied. He couldn't take it anymore, and the victim was stabbed out of his anger." The Oslob Police are continuing their investigation to gather more evidence and witness statements, while the community has been urged to resolve conflicts peacefully and avoid violence. This case serves as a stark reminder of how unchecked personal issues can escalate into tragic outcomes, affecting not only the individuals involved but also their families and neighbors.
