Illegal drugs eyed in ex-village chief's slay

MANILA, Philippines - Police investigators are eyeing the involvement of illegal drug traders in the murder of a former Tondo barangay chairman in Sta. Cruz, Manila Monday morning.

Medardo Antazo, 58, a three-term chairman of Barangay 255, Zone 23 in District 2, was shot in the head at close range by one of two men on a motorcycle at the corner of Quiricada street and Rizal Avenue at around 8:15 a.m.

As part of their daily routine, Antazo had given his wife, Luzviminda, a ride on his motorcycle to the street corner. He was waiting for her to board a jeep that would take her to the Manila city hall, where she works, when the attack happened.

Police said the gunman approached Antazo from behind, held the victim’s forearm and shot him in the back of the head. The gunman then boarded a motorcycle driven by a cohort and sped off toward Tayuman street.

Antazo died at the Jose Reyes Memorial Medical Center while undergoing emergency treatment.

SPO1 Gerardo Rivera said Luzviminda told him her husband had no known enemies during his 13 years as barangay chairman.

Police said the murder could be the handiwork of drug dealers – there are reports that Antazo sent to jail many drug offenders during his three terms as barangay chairman.