Caloocan official gunned down

MANILA, Philippines - Two unidentified men riding a motorcycle shot dead a barangay chairman in Caloocan City Thursday.

Barangay 67 chairman Elrey Magat, 26, was driving his tricycle at around 3 p.m. along Florencia street in West Grace Park when he was attacked, Chief Inspector Rod Soriano said.

Investigators said Magat received threats after he helped police arrest a suspected criminal in the area a few months ago.

Sources said Magat is an ally of Caloocan Mayor Enrico Echiverri, who is seeking a seat in the House of Representatives.– Jerry Botial, Pete Laude