NBI files criminal raps vs policeman, 4 trainees in fatal shooting of ex-soldier

MANILA, Philippines — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) on Thursday filed criminal complaints against a police officer and four of his trainees over the fatal shooting of former Army Cpl. Winston Ragos on April 21.

NBI Spokesperson Ferdinand Lavin confirmed this in a text message, saying they filed murder, perjury, and planting of evidence against Police Master Sergeant Daniel Florendo Jr. of Fairview police station and four police trainees present during the shooting incident near a COVID-19 control checkpoint in Quezon City while the enhanced community quarantine was in effect.

To recall, Ragos was shot twice by Florendo during a heated argument. According to the police report, Florendo opened fire when Ragos pulled out his firearm from a sling bag.

But witnesses said Ragos, who was suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), was unarmed.

The NBI conducted an impartial investigation into Ragos’ killing upon the request of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) also previously filed a homicide complaint against Florendo.