Barangay chairman faces murder raps

MANILA, Philippines - Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim yesterday ordered the filing of charges against a barangay chairman who allegedly killed his colleague last week.

Jonathan Florendo, chairman of Barangay 480, Zone 4, Carola street in Sampaloc, is facing charges of murder and illegal possession of firearms in connection with the killing of Hilario Romano, chairman of Barangay 473.

The incident took place while the local officials were having a meeting on July 21.

Florendo and Romano had a heated argument regarding their forthcoming fiesta celebration prior to the shooting.

Senior Superintendent Rolando Balasabas of the Manila Police District Station 4 said Florendo was arrested in a follow-up operation in Ermita two days after he allegedly shot the victim.

Recovered from the suspect’s possession were a 9mm pistol, a Magnum 357 revolver and a caliber .45 pistol he allegedly used in the crime.