Task force eyes 3 in DILG exec shooting

MANILA, Philippines - A manhunt has been launched for at least three persons in the shooting of the director of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) in Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon) on Monday morning.

“Our investigators have identified persons of interest during a case conference, but we cannot divulge more information... Another case conference will be held on Wednesday and we hope to get a positive development,” Superintendent Chitadel Gaoiran, spokesman for the Calabarzon police, said in a phone interview.

Gaoiran said a closed-circuit television camera captured one of the suspects – who could have served as the backup of the gunman – roaming the crime scene.

Renato Brion, 60, had just stepped out of his Toyota Innova (SLC-963) and was about to enter the Andeson Building, where he was holding office, when he was shot.   

Gaoiran said Senior Superintendent Romulo Sapitula, Calabarzon deputy regional director for operations, is now handling the case.

Investigators are verifying information that the gunman was with one or two persons who served as lookouts and backup. The motive for the shooting appears to be work-related, they said.

Police have invited five persons, including Brion’s wife and driver, for questioning.

Brion, who suffered gunshot wounds in the head, neck and hip, remains confined at the Asian Hospital and Medical Center in Alabang.

President Aquino had offered a P2-million reward for information leading to the arrest of the perpetrators of the shooting.