Policeman’s firearms due for ballistic tests today

The firearm of a policeman linked to the shootout that killed three people and the wounding of two others in Pasay City on Dec. 23, will be subjected to a ballistic test today, police said yesterday.

The issued caliber 9mm Beretta automatic pistol of PO3 Jose "Joey" Salazar would be sent to the crime laboratory of the Philippine National Police (PNP) to determine if it has not been fired recently. Salazar, who claimed innocence on the death of Catalino Bautista, Anthony Petilla and Joselito Manlangit, surrendered last Friday to Metro Manila police chief Deputy Director General Reynaldo Velasco. Two others, Petilla’s mother Antonieta and PO2 Bernard Cubero, are listed in serious condition at a hospital.

Despite his claim, however, Salazar, along with his primary suspect nephew, Borbie Rivera, were charged with three counts of murder and two counts of frustrated murder charges before the Pasay City prosecutor’s office. Salazar yielded before Velasco his service firearm and the Czech 75 9mm pistol believed used by Borbie in gunning down the victims. Borbie’s firearm will also be subjected to ballistic tests.

Velasco ordered Salazar to be put under the protective custody of his superior at the Regional Service Support Group (RSSG) of the National Capital Regional Police Office (NCRPO).

The Philippine Star played a key role in the surrender of Salazar.

Right after he reported the shootout at Hotline 117 of the Department of the Interior and Local Government, Salazar went after Borbie, who wriggled himself free and escaped moments after he disarmed him.

Salazar coordinated his move to Velasco through The Star. He decided to surface and clear his name after he realized it was next to impossible for him to find Borbie while other police units are going after him. – Non Alquitran