Bag chokes man to death in Nueva Vizcaya

BAYOMBONG, NUEVA VIZCAYA — A 51-year old farmer was found hanging by his neck with his own sling bag on Sunday in what police believe may have been a freak accident at Quezon town in Nueva Vizcaya province.

The victim, Rodrigo Bawalan, was discovered by neighbors at 10:00 a.m. dangling at a ravine with his bag, a betel nut pouch, wrapped around his neck, said SPO1 Jehoven Gabriel, police investigator.

Bawalan was reportedly drunk. He may have stumbled and accidentally choked himself to death, police said. He was left inside a nearby hut by his friends on Saturday after a bout of drinks.  The police, however, are investigating for signs of foul play. /je