MPD files murder charges vs cop

MANILA, Philippines - The Manila Police District filed murder charges yesterday against a rookie policeman who reportedly shot his landlord’s son following an altercation over his unpaid rent in Beata, Pandacan.

Police Office 2 James Patulot, detailed at the Southern Police District, has reportedly gone on absence without official leave (AWOL) after he allegedly shot dead Roland Febiar, 37, of 2436 Beata street, Pandacan. Febiar, who sustained four gunshot wounds in the body, expired the following day while being treated at the Philippine General Hospital.

“We have launched a manhunt against PO2 Patulot now that murder charges have been filed against him,” Chief Inspector Erwin Margarejo who heads the MPD’s homicide section said. Margarejo said the crime happened on April 9 at the compound of the victim’s residence where Patulot is renting one of the rows of apartment owned by the victim’s parents.

Patulot is reportedly being ejected by the owner from his rented apartment after failing to pay its rent for almost six months.

Witnesses said Patulot was talking with the victim’s mother when Febiar butted in, resulting in an altercation between the two men. The argument heated up until Patulot reportedly drew his firearm and fired repeatedly at the victim.

As the victim fell bloodied, Patulot boarded his motorcycle and sped away. Relatives rushed Febiar to the hospital.