Ex-lawman tagged in cop's slay

MANILA, Philippines - A former Caloocan City policeman was identified yesterday as the man who allegedly ambushed and killed a Highway Patrol Group policeman in Sta. Cruz, Manila Thursday night.

Senior Inspector Joselito de Ocampo, Manila Police District homicide section chief, declined to name the suspect, but said he was dismissed for his involvement in car theft.

He said investigators are eyeing a “love angle” in the killing of Senior Police Officer 1 Rodrigo Cortez Jr., 45, since a woman seen with him was a former partner of the suspect.

According to reports, Cortez was married but was having an affair with “Cindy,” who was beside the victim when he was shot.

The suspect and Cindy reportedly had two children but have been separated for some time.