Manhunt on for ex-kagawad who robbed businessman

MANILA, Philippines - The Manila Police District has launched a manhunt for a former barangay kagawad (councilor) of Pasay City for his alleged involvement in robbing a businessman in Malate, Manila.

Bobby Velasco, owner of the Café de Malate, identified Ramon Villareal as a lookout for the motorcycle-riding man who robbed him last Wednesday.

Velasco said he was inspecting the site of a new branch under construction on Agoncillo street at around 3 p.m. when a man parked his motorcycle, drew a .45-caliber handgun and pointed it at him and his contractor.

Velasco tried to run but the robber snatched his diamond necklace and a bag containing P60,000. The robber returned to his motorcycle and picked up another man standing nearby.

Velasco identified Villareal from the Paco police detachment’s files of suspected criminals. He said Villareal was previously arrested for a similar offense but was able to post bail.