3 dead in hostage-suicide in Manila

MANILA, Philippines – A security guard of a glass factory company on Thursday afternoon committed suicide after holding his colleagues hostage in Manila.

Radio reports said gunshots were initially heard at the Chain Glass Enterprise Inc. office located along Rizal Avenue near Pampanga Street, Sta. Cruz, Manila prior to the hostage.

The firing of gun that lasted for about 20 minutes left two dead while two others suffered injuries. The victims were brought to the Chinese General Hospital.

Authorities sent the wife of the still unnamed suspect to appease him. However, the suspect committed suicide.

The security guard allegedly held his colleagues hostage after the administration of Chain Glass asked and blamed him for the missing P1 million, according to initial reports.

Reports added that two hostages, a male and female, were already released as the negotiation continued while two more employees were left hostage by the suspect armed with a .38 calibre gun. The remaining hostages reportedly went out safe.

Reports said the hostage-taking caused traffic congestion as the nearby Pampanga and Laguna Streets were closed down.