Cops tagged in Calbayog mayor’s slay named

MANILA, Philippines — The Eastern Visayas police has released the names of police officers alleged to be involved in the shooting that led to the killing of Calbayog City Mayor Ronaldo Aquino on March 8.

Among those under custody of their police units are Col. Harry Sucayre, Maj. Cyril Tan, Lt. Julius Armesa and Cpl. Edcil Omega.They were said to be in a Toyota Hilux seen during the incident.

Authorities also mentioned the name of S/Sgt. Neil Cebu, who was wounded in the alleged shooting, and Capt. Dino Goles.

The police officers, all anti-drug operatives, allegedly fired at Aquino’s vehicle on Laboyao Bridge in Barangay Lonoy.

Brig. Gen. Ronaldo de Jesus, Eastern Visayas police director,  admitted during a Senate hearing last week that they have no information on any illegal drug involvement of Aquino.

An initial police report described the incident as a shootout, but witnesses said the mayor was ambushed.

Aquino suffered 21 gunshot wounds in his body, according to his eldest son Mark.