Ambushed DPWH executive in critical state

MANILA, Philippines - Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Undersecretary for Luzon Ramon Aquino, who was initially reported to be in stable condition, reportedly took a turn for the worse yesterday.

A source who refused to be identified said Aquino, who was ambushed outside the DPWH main office last March 11, was allegedly in critical condition and his blood pressure was erratic.

“The doctors were waiting for his condition to stabilize first before they extract the second bullet,” the source said. 

By early evening yesterday, unconfirmed reports circulated that the medical staff of the Manila Doctors Hospital were able to revive him.

Aquino remains confined at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the hospital, with four policemen on his security detail.

Fellow senior officer DPWH Undersecretary Rafael Yabut confirmed that he and Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. visited Aquino at the hospital Friday evening and that the injured official was able to write on a small white board.

Aquino, his bodyguard Tony Cabareta and driver Victor Salonga were on board a black Toyota Fortuner when unidentified gunmen ambushed them at the main gate of the DPWH at around 3 p.m. last March 11.

Aquino was reportedly on his way to Malacañang to attend a meeting.

“I was caught by surprise and I leaned on the door, which was still unlocked, so I fell on the pavement, hit my head and lost consciousness. I did not see the attackers,” Salonga said.

He added that he did not lock his door since it has automatic locking system.

Three slugs from a .45 caliber pistol were reportedly found at the crime scene.

Witnesses said they saw the suspects walk away after the incident in the direction of the Manila Hotel.

The police has already released artist sketches of the suspects in the ambush and believe that a woman had acted as lookout.