Cop shoots colleague, civilian dead

CAMP VICENTE LIM, Laguna, Philippines – A policeman and a civilian were killed while another was wounded when a police officer allegedly shot them during an argument in Maragondon, Cavite before dawn yesterday.

The fatalities, S/Sgt. Junmark Sisante of the Magallanes police and Arjay Mojica, were declared dead on arrival at the San Lorenzo Hospital in Naic.

The wounded officer, Cpl. Novinidhon Climacosa of the Ternate police, was brought to the same hospital.

The incident resulted in the relief of newly designated Maragondon police chief Maj. Ian Lexter Loyola by virtue of command responsibility.

Reports said that Cpl. Rolando Periodico Jr. of the Trece Martirez police shot the victims during an argument at the Marie’s Resort in Barangay San Miguel A.

Periodico was arrested and placed under the custody of the Maragondon police.

Probers said they recovered from the crime scene four pistols including Periodico’s Glock 17.

Witnesses told probers that Periodico and his companion, who were reportedly drunk, were about to leave when they and the victims figured in an argument at the parking area of the resort, which resulted in the shooting.

Sources said a police official was celebrating his birthday at the resort with local government executives among the visitors.

Periodico and his companion were reportedly drunk when they arrived at the party, although it was not clear whether they were among the invited guests.