Ex-tanod kills alleged lover, self

MANILA, Philippines - A 54-year-old former barangay tanod shot dead his alleged lover, a 49-year-old housemaid, then killed himself in Sta. Mesa, Manila yesterday morning.

Flordeliza Laurel and Guillermo Araojo died in the garage of Laurel’s employer along Lingayen street, Bacood, Sta. Mesa. Both sustained gunshot wounds in the head. Araojo’s .38 caliber revolver was recovered at the crime scene.

Investigators are still verifying unconfirmed reports that Laurel and Araojo were lovers and that Laurel told Araojo she wanted to end their relationship.

According to PO1 Gerry Amores, a visibly drunk Araojo visited Laurel at her employer’s house Friday night to settle their differences. Araojo was also asking Laurel to return money she owed him if she did not want to reconcile, police said.

The two were summoned to the barangay hall, where they reportedly settled their differences.

At around 7 a.m., a sober Araojo returned to Laurel’s employer and asked for forgiveness for his rude behavior the night before. He also asked to talk with Laurel.

According to Laurel’s employer, she allowed the two to talk outside the garage. Moments later, she saw Laurel go into the garage, followed by Araojo, who was holding a gun.

The employer said she heard Araojo shouted at Laurel: “I cannot accept your decision, Flor (referring to Laurel), I am ready to kill and be killed.” The employer heard two shots and rushed outside to seek assistance.

Amores said he will talk to Araojo’s family to establish the motive for the shooting.