2 robbery-murder suspects slain in shootout with Taguig cops

MANILA, Philippines – Two suspected robbers were killed in a shootout with police in Taguig City early Friday but not after they held up and shot dead a “balikbayan”, an official said later in the day.

Chief Superintendent Agrimero Cruz Jr. said that Gerry Panodera was leaving his brother’s boarding house along Purok 5, Manuel L. Quezon Avenue in Lower Bicutan around 8 a.m. when he was approached by the suspects and was shot while the robbery was taking place.

A brief firefight ensued between responding policemen and the suspects who fled towards Purok 6, General Santos Street, Lower Bicutan, Cruz Jr. said.

Recovered were a caliber .45 and 9-millimeter pistol and spent shells, he said.

He said that an investigation was underway.

Jamie Marie Elona