4 slain, 2 wounded in Batangas gun attacks

CAMP VICENTE LIM, Laguna , Philippines  —  Four persons were killed and two others were wounded in gun attacks in Batangas on Wednesday.

Roger Cupo, Julian de Castro and Mando Marasigan were in a tricycle on their way home when they were attacked by unidentified men in a white van in Barangay Bolbok, Tuy at around 4:30 p.m.

The victims were declared dead on arrival at the Don Manuel Lopez Hospital.

Rhandel Rivera and Robemar and Rona, both surnamed Perez, were in a blue Toyota Vios (PEQ-161) when they were shot by motorcycle-riding gunmen in Barangay Sambat, Tanauan at about 4:50 p.m.

Rivera died at the scene. Robemar and Rona were taken to the CP Reyes Medical Center for treatment.

Police are verifying reports that another wounded victim died while being treated in the hospital.

Probers are not discounting the possibility that the shooting was drug-related after learning that the victims were tagged in the illegal drug trade.

Former barangay chairman Roy Lumbao was shot dead when he allegedly resisted arrest and fired at law enforcers in a drug sting in Barangay Binauhan, Pilar, Sorsogon also on Wednesday.

 In Bulacan, a man who has yet to be identified, was killed in an alleged shootout with police officers who responded to reports  that a motorcycle was stolen in Barangay Diliman First, San Rafael yesterday morning.

The companion of the suspect managed to escape.

Police said they recovered a caliber .38 revolver, the stolen motorcycle and a tricycle from the fatality.