Manhunt on for militiaman who killed 2 comrades

KORONADAL CITY, Philippines — Policemen and soldiers of the 27th Infantry Battalion have started a manhunt for a militiaman who shot two of his comrades dead and wounded another in Tampakan, South Cotabato on Thursday evening.

Col. Ronald Jess Alcudia, 27th IB commander, identified the suspect as Civilian Armed Forces Geographical Unit (CAFGU) member Mark Anthony Aradaza.
Alcudia said Aradaza, for still unknown reasons, ran amok at 9 p.m. Thursday.

Aradaza strafed his comrades inside the militia detachment in Barangay Palo, Tampakan, South Cotabato, Alcudia added.

Militiamen Frankly Viloria, 23 and Mark Anthony Macul, 26, died immediately, while another militiaman, Camilo de Claro, 23, was injured. The victims were all residents of Barangay Palo and members of the 72nd Civilian Armed Auxiliary/CAFGU under the supervision of 27th Infantry Battalion.

After the incident, Aradaza fled with his rifle.

CAA Erick Panes told reporters that the victims were resting in two separate hammocks inside the militia base when Aradaza, armed with M-14 Rifle, opened fire.

He said Macul, who was hit on the abdomen, was set to marry his fiancee in two months. Viloria sustained head injuries and died instantly.

De Claro is now recuperating at the South Cotabato Provincial Hospital in Koronadal City. Edwin O. Fernandez, Inquirer Mindanao