2 drug suspects slain in Luzon

MANILA, Philippines — Two suspected drug traffickers were killed in alleged shootouts with police oficers in Bulacan and Laguna on Monday.

Ronaldo Escalona, alias Muka, reportedly pulled out a gun after sensing he was dealing with an undercover agent in Barangay Malipampang, San Ildefonso, according to Senior Superintendent Chito Bersaluna, Bulacan police director.

Escalona reportedly shot at the officers, triggering a firefight that resulted in his death.

Probers said they recovered from the suspect a .38 caliber revolver and a motorcycle.

Meanwhile, Marjollan Carandang, 42, reportedly exchanged fire with police officers that resulted in his death in San Pablo City, according to Senior Superintendent Eleazar Matta, Laguna police director.

Carandang and his companion, identified as Erickson Diangkinay, reportedly sold a sachet of shabu to an undercover agent in Barangay San Crispin.

Diangkinay managed to escape.

Aside from drug dealing, the suspects were allegedly involved in contract killings and other criminal activities. – Ed Amoroso, Emmanuel Tupas