Briton shot dead by his own guard

 CEBU, Philippines - A Briton who operated a dive shop in Malapascua Island in Daanbantayan, Cebu was shot dead by his own security guard Saturday evening.

The victim was identified as Anthony Gilchrist, 34, owner and manager of the Fish Buddies Dive Shop Resort, while the suspect was identified as Melchor Alciso Jr., 42, of Barangay Cabulisan, Hinundayan, Southern Leyte.

The victim reportedly berated the guard when the guard arrived for duty drunk.

They got into a heated argument inside the shop and the suspect pulled out his .38 cal. revolver and shot the victim six times.

The victim was taken to the Daanbantayan District Hospital, which was thirty minutes by boat from Malapascua Island and 20 minutes by car from Maya wharf, by the victim’s neighbor PO1 Louie Mesa. However, the victim was declared dead on arrival at the hospital.

Daanbantayan Mayor Augusto Corro said although the killing was unfortunate, it was an isolated incident.

“It is unfortunate that this incident happened at a time when the island was brim-filled with tourists, being a Holy Week,” said Corro in a statement.

Malapascua Island, one of Cebu’s top tourist destinations for its pristine white sand beaches and unique dive sites, is just getting back on its feet after it was heavily devastated by super typhoon Yolanda.

“I’m confident this unfortunate and isolated incident will not affect the tourism industry of the island,” Corro said.

Corro ordered an investigation into the shooting incident and also contacted the British Consular Office in Cebu and informed them of what happened.

“My thoughts and prayers are with the victim and his family,” Corro added.

The suspect is now detained in the Daanbantayan Police Station. —/BRP (FREEMAN)