Clowning Turns Deadly: 45-year-old man in Isabela hacked to death over jokes

Cauayan City, Isabela — A 45-year-old barangay tanod (barangay watchman) in Cauayan City, Isabela, was hacked to death after jokes he made during a drinking spree on February 3, 2026, reportedly offended a drinking companion.

The victim was identified by local police as Marvin Garcia, married, and a resident of Barangay San Antonio, Cauayan City.

In the initial investigation, authorities found that Garcia and the 44-year-old suspect, Felino Baldos, had earlier purchased alcoholic drinks and later engaged in a drinking session with four other companions.

While they were already intoxicated, the group’s conversation allegedly turned into joking and teasing. Police said Baldos became upset over one of Garcia’s jokes, prompting him to leave the gathering.

Moments later, Baldos allegedly returned armed with a bladed weapon, described as a forward-curved Filipino sword or battle cleaver. While Garcia was eating, Baldos reportedly attacked him from behind, striking his head and neck multiple times.

Police reported that Garcia sustained seven hack wounds to the upper part of his body.

The victim was rushed to a nearby hospital in an effort to save his life, but the attending physician declared him dead on arrival.

In an interview with a local media outlet, Police Lieutenant Colonel Avelino Canseran Jr., Chief of Police of the Cauayan Component City Police Station, said Baldos remains at large after fleeing the crime scene.

The suspect now faces murder charges, and a hot pursuit operation is underway for his arrest.

Police also urged the public to cooperate by providing any information that could help in the suspect’s immediate apprehension and the delivery of justice to the victim.