2 cops, 1 civilian killed in Tagaytay City shootout

INQUIRER FILES

LUCENA CITY — Two police officers and a civilian died on Sunday, Sept. 1, in an alleged shootout in Tagaytay City, Cavite.

Brigadier General Paul Kenneth Lucas, commander of the Police Regional Office 4A (PRO-4A), reported that Captain Adrian Binalay, assigned to the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in National Capital Region, and Captain Tomas Ganio Batarao Jr., under PRO-4A Regional Personnel Holding and Accounting Section, along with their civilian companion, were in Prime Peak Subdivision in Barangay Maitim 2nd Central around 2 p.m. to inquire about purchasing a lot.

However, a security guard advised them not to enter the subdivision premises.

The report did not say why there was a restriction order.

Despite the restriction, the group proceeded to enter the subdivision but was fired upon by one “Santos,” who was firing from inside his car.

An exchange of gunfire ensued.

Both police officers and Santos suffered fatal wounds. Binalay died on the spot, while Batarao and Santos expired on the way to the hospital.

The PRO-4A organized an investigation team to uncover the circumstances leading to the shooting incident.

Two other suspects, both unidentified, were arrested by the police. They were in the custody of the local police for further investigation.

Lucas assured the public that the investigation would be conducted “with utmost diligence and impartiality” to determine the facts and provide justice to the victims and their families. INQ