Abra vice mayor’s men yield, turn over guns
BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — Twelve former soldiers who served as security aides of Vice Mayor Josefina Disono of Pilar, Abra were taken into custody as the standoff with law enforcers following a shootout at a police checkpoint ended on Wednesday.
The former military personnel submitted themselves to the custody of the Philippine Army pending an investigation by the Philippine National Police (PNP).
Fourteen guns were turned over to the police for ballistics examination, Cordillera police director Brig. Gen. Ronald Lee, who led the negotiations during the standoff, said.
Police said Disono’s security aides sought refuge at the vice mayor’s compound after driving past a checkpoint and firing at policemen manning it.
Disono’s camp had earlier claimed they were “ambushed” by the policemen.
The vice mayor said the police allowed her vehicle to pass, but prevented those of her aides.
One of Disono’s aides identified as Sandee Boy Bermudo was killed in the shootout. His firearm was said to be registered under the vice mayor’s name.
The PNP is eyeing the filing of criminal charges against Disono and her companions in connection with the incident. – Emmanuel Tupas
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