Tabloid columnist survives another slay try

A columnist of Bulgar survived another slay try yesterday after exchanging gunfire with what he claims to be two motorcycle-riding assassins in Valenzuela.

Pablo Hernandez III, 41, was on his way home to Quezon City aboard his yellow Toyota Corona, with license plate NMS-287, when the shooting occured.

Superintendent Billy Beltran, Valenzuela police chief, said they are yet to establish the motive for the shooting incident. "There is not enough evidence pointing to anybody yet," Beltran said.

Valenzuela City Mayor Sherwin Gatchalian for his part condemned the violence perpetrated against another member of the media.

The hood of the victim’s car bore three bullet holes while a lone bullet hole on the windshield came from Hernandez’s machine pistol.

A spent shell from a 9mm pistol was also recovered from the scene.

Meanwhile, the Philipppine National Police (PNP) has heightened police visibility near the vicinity of Hernandez’s residence.

The first attempt against Hernandez’s life was last Feb. 8 and policemen from the PNP Maritime Group have been charged in court. — Jerry Botial and Cecille Suerte Felipe