Shootout leaves police official, 2 others dead

BATANGAS, Philippines  – The 33-year-old deputy police chief of Sto. Tomas town here was gunned down Monday night, authorities said.

Senior Superintendent Rosauro Acio, Batangas police director, however, said Senior Inspector Reynaldo Valencia managed to fire back, killing two of his attackers, identified as Carlito Cornejo, 63, and Nelson Cornejo.

Wounded in the shootout was Crisanto Lawas, who was rushed to the Saint Cabrini Hospital. Arrested was Allan Cornejo.

Reports said Valencia, together with PO2 Sherwin Luna and PO1 Cipriano Manaig, was conducting surveillance in Barangay San Miguel aboard a civilian car when the Cornejos and Lawas, who were intoxicated, blocked their motorcycle along his path at around 7:30 p.m. Monday.

Witnesses said Valencia stepped out of the car and introduced himself as a policeman to the group, but was shot once in the chest by one of the suspects.

Although wounded, Valencia managed to shoot back, hitting three of the suspects.

Valencia, however, later passed away, while Nelson and Carlito Cornejo died while being treated at the hospital. Valencia’s two policeman-companions were unhurt.