Former Army man kills 3 in Taguig on Dec. 31

The police have started looking for a retired soldier who went into hiding after he reportedly shot and killed three men in Taguig City on New Year’s Eve.

According to police reports, Diosdado Baltan, identified as a member of the Philippine Army, faces murder charges for the killing of Tyrol Mortos, Enrique Goco and Ronald Mabonga after they went to his house on Mt. Apo Street, Palar Village, to cut off his water supply on Tuesday morning.

The victims, all employees of Inner Port Water distributor, were about to disconnect Baltan’s water supply due to unpaid bills when an argument broke out. Witnesses said the suspect took out a gun and then shot the victims.

Taguig police investigation section head Chief Inspector Benito Basilio said they would be filing three counts of murder against Baltan.

But Southern Police District director Chief Supt. Jose Erwin Villacorte told the Inquirer that investigators were considering another motive for the shooting.

He said the victims were workers of the landlord, Rey Acas, the ex-boyfriend of Baltan’s live-in partner.

When Acas and his partner separated, Acas moved out while Baltan moved in. Villacorte said that Acas’ workers had repeatedly returned to the apartment to collect bill payments but Baltan and his live-in partner kept refusing to pay.

Baltan’s live-in partner, who was not identified, has been brought in for questioning by the police.