By Gabriel Kim Leal
(April 7, 2025) – A Belgian national was found dead inside his rented house in New Bataan, Davao de Oro on Saturday, local authorities said.
Marc Ivo Vancutsem, 68, was found with multiple facial injuries believed to be caused by a metal pipe found at the scene. He had been living in the province for over a year.
The husband of the victim’s helper was tagged as the suspect and was arrested by police officers.
“Allegedly ‘yung main reason, ‘yung motive (sa pagpatay) ay selos,” said New Bataan Police chief Maj. Darwin Aguilar.
The victim’s wife, a Filipina, found his body the following morning. She had reportedly spent the night elsewhere after a disagreement with him. The suspect denied killing Vancutsem.
“Hindi talaga ako ang pumatay sa kanya. Kung ako nga ang pumatay, dapat may ebidensya sila. Hindi ko magagawa na patayin siya, lalo’t kaibigan ko siya. Kumpare ko siya. Ninong siya ng anak ko,” said the suspect.
The suspect’s relatives described him as naturally jealous.
He is currently in the custody of New Bataan Palace and is facing a murder charge.
Vancutsem’s body remains at a funeral home pending an autopsy. The Belgian Embassy is working with local authorities to arrange the repatriation of his remains.
(With reports from Bryll Montalvo, News5)
(PM)
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