MANILA, Philippines - A suspected drug trafficker was killed while his girlfriend was arrested following a shootout with police officers in Antipolo City Saturday.
Miguel Villareal was declared dead on arrival at the Amang Rodriguez Memorial Medical Center due to several gunshot wounds in the body.
Villareal’s girlfriend, Maribeth Galivo, 22, was unhurt.
The shootout occurred after police officers received reports that the suspect would deliver shabu to Antipolo, said Senior Superintendent Bernabe Balba, Rizal police director.
Police officers set up a checkpoint along Marcos Highway to apprehend the suspect and his partner at around 3 a.m.
Instead of pulling over, the suspects, who were on a motorcycle, reportedly shot at the police officers and fled toward Siruna Road.
The lawmen pursued the suspects, who reportedly shot at them again, triggering a firefight.
Investigators recovered a motorcycle, a caliber .38 revolver with three bullets and a belt bag said to contain drugs in plastic sachets, drug paraphernalia, phones, and P2,000.
Galivo is being held at the Antipolo City police.