‘Trigger-happy’ cop charged

BATANGAS, Philippines  – Charges were filed yesterday against a police officer who fired a gun during a fiesta in Tanauan City on Saturday.

Police Officer 2 Darius Canovas was charged with alarm and scandal before the city prosecutor’s office.

Canovas was arrested by Tanauan Mayor Antonio Halili, whose convoy was slowed down by a procession in Barangay Balele.

Canovas reportedly fired his service firearm as the procession was approaching his house.

The gunfire alarmed Halili’s security men, who thought they were being ambushed.

Tanauan police chief Superintendent Christopher Olazo said Canovas could be dismissed from the service and jailed if proven guilty.

Olazo said the police officer refused to undergo a paraffin test.