1 dead, 6 hurt in Quezon City shootout

MANILA, Philippines - A rogue policeman was killed and at least six others were hurt when he and two alleged members of a drug ring shot it out with police officers in Barangay Paligsahan, Quezon City yesterday afternoon.

The shootout occurred at the intersection of Quezon and Roces Avenues at past 4 p.m., according to Inspector Rohaina Asalan, deputy information officer of the Quezon City Police District (QCPD). 

Senior Police Officer 1 Wilberto Blanco and his companions – a man and a woman – occupied a black sport utility vehicle, an Isuzu MU-X (ASA 7504). They reportedly tried to leave the area as members of Task Force Tugis were conducting an operation.

Police officers reportedly fired warning shots and the suspects shot at them, triggering a firefight.

Asalan said the suspects were brought to the Capitol Medical Center. Blanco died last night, according to the QCPD.

Four bystanders were reportedly hit by stray bullets during the shootout.

Inspector Elmer Monsalve, head of the homicide investigation section of the QCPD, said they have yet to identify the two other suspects.