2 killed in Iloilo barangay checkpoint shootout

MANILA, Philippines - Two persons were killed during a shootout at a checkpoint set up by village officials  in Barangay San Dionisio in San Rafael, Iloilo.

The fatalities were identified as Rex Belgira, 24, a village watchman of San Dionisio, and Gilbert Italia, 34, a resident of Barangay San Antonio in Barotac Viejo town.

Italia’s cousin, Hernani Pulmones, 45, a retired Army soldier was wounded.

Chief Inspector Wilfredo Rios, San Rafael police chief, said Belgira and three village watchmen set up a checkpoint at their village after his father Remy, the barangay captain, received reports that criminals are lurking in the area.

A shootout ensued when Pulmones and Italia, who were on a motorcycle were pulled over by the village watchmen.