3 slain in Palawan ‘shootout’

CAMP VICENTE LIM, Laguna, Philippines — Two police officers and a personnel of the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) were killed in an alleged shootout in Puerto Princesa, Palawan on Friday night.

The fatalities were identified as S/Sgts Ryan Cris Cabaña and Jayson Fernandez of the Puerto Princesa City police, and Jerson Talon of the BuCor.

Initial reports said the fatalities were attending a wake in Barangay Irawan when a quarrel reportedly broke out between them and a group of bystanders.

The quarrel reportedly escalated and resulted in the shootout.

However, some residents said that the police officers and the Bucor personnel engaged in a spat and allegedly drew their guns.

Others said a man arrived at the wake and shot the victims without provocation.

The local police confirmed that a shooting occurred in the area, but refused to give details of the incident.

Brig. Gen. Jovencio Badua Jr., Mimaropa police director, said a special investigation task group has been created to look into the incident.

Police assured the families of the fatalities that all measures are being taken to ensure a speedy delivery of justice.