Cop in ‘illegal gun deal’ slain

MANILA, Philippines — A police officer tagged in the illegal sale of firearms was killed in an alleged shootout in Placer, Masbate on Saturday, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.

S/Sgt. Grafilo Pahilino Jr. of the Placer municipal police allegedly drew his gun after sensing that he was dealing with undercover agents to whom he reportedly sold three handguns, according to the PNP-Integrity Monitoring and Enforcement Group.

Pahilino was declared dead on arrival at a nearby hospital.

“Back-up operatives posted in the area during the sting returned fire, hitting the suspect in the body,” IMEG Brig. Gen. Flynn Dongbo said.

PNP chief Gen. Guillermo Eleazar said the police operation was part of the efforts of the PNP to ensure credible and orderly elections next year.

Police said they seized from Pahilino a government-issued 9mm pistol with ammunition, the firearms he sold during the sting and marked money.