Cop threatens businesswoman in traffic row

MANILA, Philippines - A policeman and his woman companion were arrested yesterday after he threatened to kill a businesswoman and her partner when they nearly figured in a road mishap in Valenzuela City.

Case officer Police Officer 3 John Espiritu identified the policeman as PO2 Marcelo Agarin, 32, reportedly of the Special Action Force and his companion as Joan Guarino, 23.

Authorities said businesswoman Michelle Padrinao, 33, and her live-in partner, businessman Aristotle Ortiz, 32, were in their Toyota Fortuner when Agarin and Guarino, who were riding tandem on a motorcycle, nearly hit them along Pag-asa street in Barangay Karuhatan.

The suspects blocked their path and Ortiz blew his horn in response. Guarino allegedly gave them the “dirty finger” while Agarin drew his handgun, identified himself as a policeman and a Muslim, then told the victims he had killed three persons and they could be next. The suspects then sped off towards San Brigada street, but the victims asked the village watchmen for help and cornered the suspects.

They were later turned over to the police for proper disposition. Charges of grave threat and unjust vexation are being readied against Agarin and Guarino.