8 suspects shot dead in drug war

MANILA, Philippines — Eight drug suspects were killed in anti-drug operations in Laguna, Cavite and Palawan in the past two days.

Sabino Benitez, 29, who was on the drug watchlist in Puerto Princesa, engaged anti-narcotics agents in a shootout in Barangay Sta. Lourdes on Friday, according to Superintendent Imelda Tolentino, Mimaropa police spokesperson. 

Inspector Ray Elona was hit near the armpit, but suffered minor injuries because he was wearing a bullet-proof vest.

Roberto Glori reportedly drew his gun when he sensed he had sold shabu to a police officer who posed as a buyer in Barangay San Jose, General Mariano Alvarez, Cavite also on Friday.

Also in Cavite, Marjun Martinez was killed in a sting in Barangay Paradahan 2, Tanza, and Rodelito Pelayo, alias Toto, and Artjule Sarinas in Barangays  Tabon 1 and Gahak, respectively, in Kawit yesterday.

Senior Superintendent Eleazar Matta, Laguna police director, said drug ring members Christopher Alain Alvero and two of his unidentified cohorts were killed in a shootout with police officers serving a search warrant for illegal drugs in Barangay San Ignacio, San Pablo City.

Matta said Alvero was ranked eighth in Laguna’s list of “high-value” targets.

The other fatality was identified as Eric Saludario, alias Toto Dilat, who was killed in a drug bust in Barangay Nueva, San Pedro also in Laguna.