2 killed in drug-related attacks

MANILA, Philippines - At least two persons were killed in drug-related shootings and encounters with police officers in Metro Manila since Sunday.

In Marikina, drug surrenderee Armando Albarida, 45, died after being shot by three unidentified men in Barangay Fortune at around 8:30 p.m. on Sunday. He was waiting for a ride at a tricycle terminal on Fortune Avenue when he was attacked.

A pedestrian, Ruel Mangulay, was hit in the back by a stray bullet.

In Quezon City, Jhioney Alcueno, 22, was killed in an alleged shootout with police officers during a sting along Leyte street in Barangay Payatas B at around 4:30 p.m. Sunday. 

Police officers were reportedly able to buy P500 worth of shabu from Alcueno.

Investigators recovered a .45 caliber M1911-A1 Colt pistol, fired cartridge cases, a sachet said to contain shabu and the marked money.

Meanwhile, at least 25 others were arrested in separate anti-narcotics operations in Barangays Kamuning, San Antonio, Tatalon, Pasong Putik, East Fairview, Doña Imelda, Talipapa and Damayang Lagi.

Soldier runs amuck

In Pasay, Army Maj. Elmer Payot was reported to be in critical condition after he was wounded in a shootout with police officers Sunday night.

Barangay 20 tanod Mark dela Peña sought police assistance after Payot, who was drunk, allegedly went wild in an apartment and held its occupants hostage.

Police officers tried to negotiate but Payot, who is assigned to the Philippine Army General Headquarters, tried to shoot the lawmen but his gun misfired. The police officers shot him twice in the chest.

Investigators recovered a .45 caliber pistol with several bullets, sachets said to contain shabu and drug paraphernalia from Payot, who is confined at the Philippine General Hospital.

He has been placed under hospital arrest and charges of illegal possession of drugs and illegal detention are being prepared against him. – Non Alquitran, Romina Cabrera, Perseus Echeminada