Tsinoy tries to kill self

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines – A 45-year-old Filipino-Chinese businessman reportedly tried to kill himself in a fitness gym that he owns here on Saturday afternoon.

Police withheld the name of the businessman, who is suffering from bipolar disorder.

Reports said the man arrived at the Jak Gym on Lacson street before noon and sat behind a punching bag with a .38 caliber pistol in his hand.

He started firing at around 1 p.m., but no one was hit as he was alone in the gym. The instructors were out for lunch.

Tenants of a nearby building heard the gunfire and called up the authorities.

Police Station 1 chief Senior Inspector Richard Fajarito said the man pointed the gun to his mouth in order to stop responding police officers from arresting him.

The suspect became emotional, saying he was having problems with his family.

He asked for the presence of a pastor, to whom he handed over the gun after almost four hours of negotiation.

Authorities said it was the fourth attempt of the businessman to kill himself.

Police found bullets and bullet shells in the gym.