MANILA, Philippines — A 28-year-old man was attacked and killed by a drinking buddy while they were celebrating a mutual friend’s entry into the police force Saturday midnight in Manila.

Nilo Umali Jr, of Interior 74, President Quirino Avenue in Paco, was declared dead on arrival by attending doctors at the Philippine General Hospital from two knife wounds in the stomach.

His alleged attacker Edgardo Casignia, 37, of Burgos Street, Zamora in Pandacan, immediately fled after the assault.

SPO3 Dennis Paul Javier of the MPD homicide section said that the killing happened at around midnight of Saturday, on the sidewalk of Zamora Bridge, Barangay 826 Zone 89 in Pandacan.

Javier revealed that before the killing, both Umali and Casignia had been invited by a certain “Michael” to a drinking binge to celebrate his induction into the Philippine National Police.

However, at the height of the celebration, Casignia allegedly grabbed a knife and suddenly stabbed Umali in the body before fleeing. The victim was rushed to the nearest hospital, where he succumbed to his wounds.

Based on statements given by other witnesses, the case investigator pointed out there was no provocation for the attack. Casignia allegedly assaulted the victim for no reason.

Homicide investigators are conducting follow-up operations for the suspect’s arrest.