Normal people are scared of ghosts, but murderous psychos aren't normal people. Those in the business of killing won't be bothered by niceties such as conscience or the wrath of God. But wouldn't they at least be bothered by ghosts?
I've often wondered if killers ever get haunted by the ghosts of their victims.
When former town mayor Andal Ampatuan Jr. was detained at the National Bureau of Investigation's main office in Manila for the November 2009 massacre in Maguindanao, he was moved out of the detention cell and allowed to sleep on a bench near the visitors' area, wrapped in a comforter, after he claimed he was scared of ghosts.
Anyone would have trouble sleeping after leading some 200 lowlifes in mowing down 58 people, squishing them alive inside their cars and then dumping them in a shallow grave, together with the cars, using a government-owned backhoe.
Military officers told me that Ampatuan was notorious for brutality and decapitation of his political foes and armed threats such as members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, at the time still an enemy of the state. The government liked the Ampatuans for keeping the MILF and other armed elements in check in Maguindanao (also for the votes they guaranteed to produce - just give the number of votes needed, and the clan delivered).
With so many kills personally attributed to him, that story about Ampatuan's fear of ghosts stretched credulity. But maybe there were other ghosts haunting the old headquarters of the NBI, and the ghosts didn't like mass murderers.
This story is from the November 01, 2024 edition of The Philippine Star.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the November 01, 2024 edition of The Philippine Star.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
JETSETTER-APPROVED DESTINATIONS TO GO BIG ON YOUR CHRISTMAS TRIP
Doc Kim, aka The Moonlighting Doctor, Jax Reyes, The Poor Traveler, and Amanda Griffin-Jacob spill their favorite holiday trips, mishaps, and more
A Hallyu fan's itinerary
Experience South Korea and fulfill your \"K\" fantasy
Mobile apps to organize your perfect Christmas getaway
These mobile applications can help you arrange a million journeys in just one device
'TIS THE SEASON TO HAVE THE BEST HOLIDAY EXPERIENCE AT NEWPORT WORLD RESORTS
The most wonderful time of the year has arrived, casting Newport World Resorts in festive cheer, cozy staycations, and seasonal events across the property.
Catriona Gray on Chelsea Manalo: I'm really proud of her
Former Miss Universe Catriona Gray shared her thoughts on the recently concluded Miss Universe 2024 in Mexico, expressing pride in the Philippines' representative, Chelsea Manalo, despite her not advancing to the Top 12.
JONATHAN ROUMIE ON PLAYING JESUS IN 'THE CHOSEN': MY LIFE WAS COMPLETELY CHANGED
AMERICAN ACTOR Jonathan Roumie has shared how his life got \"completely changed\" after being cast as Jesus in the most popular faith-based series, \"The Chosen\"
'Gladiator 3' already in works, says director
LOS ANGELES - Ridley Scott's long-awaited \"Gladiator\" sequel has not even hit US theaters yet, but the veteran director is already hard at work on a third installment.
Say It Clear Say It Loud is a love letter to the world
I wanted to create a stronger presence for the LGBT community in relevant social spaces so our messages of hope, love, acceptance, and equality can be heard loud and clear.
EDDIE ROMERO'S 'GANITO' SELECTED FOR UNESCO MEMORY OF THE WORLD
Blitz review
ROBINSONS ARTABLADO PRESENTS VICSON APOSTOL'S 'HOME'
For Filipino artist Vicson Apostol, the idea of \"home\" transcends the confines of walls and roofs.