PWD Market Worker Brutally Attacked with Broken Bottle in Lapu-Lapu City
A shocking incident of violence has rocked the community in Lapu-Lapu City, where a 56-year-old person with disability (PWD) was severely injured after being stabbed multiple times with a broken bottle by a drunk neighbor. The victim, identified as Jerome Candelasa, a dispatcher at the local public market, sustained various wounds across his body during the brutal assault that occurred in the early hours of April 4, 2026.
CCTV Footage Captures Horrifying Attack
The attack was captured on CCTV cameras installed at the market, and the footage has since gone viral on social media after being posted online by Candelasa's child. The video clearly shows the suspect, Jaylord Ardiente, a 24-year-old coconut vendor, approaching Candelasa and provoking him into a fight. Shortly after, Ardiente is seen grabbing a bottle, breaking it, and repeatedly stabbing Candelasa with the sharp fragments.
In an interview, Candelasa recounted the terrifying ordeal, stating that Ardiente did not stop attacking him even after he fell to the ground. "He suddenly challenged me to a fight, so I stood up. I'm disabled and not strong enough, so I just tried to block with my legs," said Candelasa, who was left with injuries on various parts of his body. He has since received medical treatment and is now in stable condition.
Suspect Known for Troublemaking and Drug-Related Issues
The suspect, Ardiente, fled the scene immediately after the attack and remains at large, with police actively searching for him. According to local reports, Ardiente is notorious in the area for being a troublemaker, especially when drunk, and has a history of picking fights with anyone nearby. He is also known to have prior records with the barangay and has been in and out of prison for cases related to illegal drugs.
Candelasa, who has been paralyzed for two years, explained that the conflict began earlier that night when Ardiente tried to join a drinking session with his child and friends near their home. After becoming intoxicated, Ardiente became aggressive and chased Candelasa's child, though the child managed to escape. Hours later, at around 4:00 AM, Candelasa became the target of Ardiente's rage.
The victim expressed hope that the suspect would surrender and face the consequences of his actions. "I hope he surrenders and confronts what he did," Candelasa stated, highlighting the need for justice in this disturbing case. The incident has sparked concerns about safety in public markets and the broader issue of violence against vulnerable individuals in the community.
