Pawnshop teller killed in Toledo robbery

CEBU, Philippines - One of three pawnshop tellers of M. Lhuillier met his untimely death yesterday following a hold-up in Toledo City late yesterday afternoon.

The three tellers also lost the P2.5 million cash to the suspects. They had just withdrawn the money from Metrobank - Toledo branch not far from the M.Lhuillier branch when waylaid by the suspects on the national highway in Barangay Poblacion.

Initial investigation revealed that the three tellers were walking from the bank when two men on board a motorcycle appeared and declared a hold-up. The man riding in pillion then disembarked and pointed a gun at the three.

Witnesses said the victim, identified as Domingo del Pilar, resisted and refused to hand over the bag with the money, thus, the suspect shot him on the chest. The robbers then sped off toward Barangay Upper Poblacion, a mountain barangay that leads to Pinamungahan town.

The gunman reportedly wore a black jacket and a cap and stood about 5’10.”

Del Pilar was declared dead on arrival at the Toledo City Hospital. His two companions were safe.

The money the three had withdrawn was reportedly supposed to be used for today’s transactions at the pawnshop.

Provincial Police Director Sr. Supt. Patrocinio Comendador already ordered a manhunt on the suspects. (FREEMAN)