3 killed in Bulacan drug war

MANILA, Philippines — Three drug suspects were killed in alleged encounters with police officers in Bulacan yesterday morning.

One of the fatalities, identified as Kerwin Balagtas, 27, reportedly resisted arrest following a sting in Barangay Matimbo, Malolos at around 7:15 a.m., according to Bulacan police director Senior Superintendent Chito Bersaluna.

Balagtas ran to his house after sensing that he was dealing with an undercover agent.

The suspect reportedly shot at the pursuing officers, triggering a firefight that resulted in his death.

Police recovered a .38 caliber revolver, 24 plastic sachets said to contain shabu and drug paraphernalia from Balagtas.

In San Jose del Monte City, a certain Michael engaged police officers in a shootout that led to his death in Barangay Muzon.

Police recovered a .45 caliber pistol and eight plastic sachets containing shabu from the suspect.

In nearby Calumpit town, anti-narcotics operatives shot dead Ruel Barcelona following a sting in Barangay Pungo.

Barcelona allegedly resisted arrest and pulled out a gun, triggering a firefight.

Probers recovered a .45 caliber pistol and three sachets of shabu from Barcelona.

Meanwhile, in Negros Occidental, unidentified gunmen shot and killed a drug surenderee in Murcia on Monday.

Efraim Llamado, 57, died at the scene from several gunshot wounds, according to Chief Inspector Roberto Indiape, Murcia police chief.

Llamado, a former municipal employee, was having coffee in Barangay Sta. Rosa when he was killed. The assailants fled on a motorcycle.

Police said Llamado previously surrendered to the police under Oplan Tokhang.

The suspect reportedly resumed his illegal activities after he underwent rehabilitation. – Ramon Efren Lazaro, Gilbert Bayoran