3 dead, 3 hurt in Batangas shooting

MANILA, Philippines - Three businessmen were killed while three others were wounded after they were ambushed by a group of heavily armed men on Sunday night while on their way to a restaurant in Batangas province.

Police identified the fatalities as Jonathan Tolosa, Cesar Manalo and Isko Ramos, residents of Barangay Sta. Maria in Bauan town.

The three victims were reportedly engaged in the buy and sell of scrap metals and other materials.

The businessmen's companions identified as Miguel Aldovino, Marlon Orsaal and Rea Bernales were wounded and rushed to the Mabini General Hospital.

Initial reports said that the six victims were on their way to a restaurant in Mabini town when a still undetermined number of gunmen opened fire at them.

The gunmen escaped on board a Toyota car and sped toward Bauan town.

Authorities are still investigating the incident.