Ex-OFW charged with killing friend in Iloilo

By Jennifer P. Rendon

A former overseas Filipino worker (OFW) has been charged with murder for allegedly shooting his drinking companion in Santa Barbara, Iloilo.

The suspect, identified only as “Jethro,” 38, of Barangay Camambugan, Santa Barbara, was charged with murder and illegal possession of a firearm before the Iloilo Provincial Prosecutor’s Office on Monday, Feb. 2.

Jethro is accused of killing 39-year-old Ruel, a construction worker from the same barangay.

Reports said the two had been drinking at a restaurant-bar in the village Saturday night.

Witnesses claimed Jethro left the bar around 10:20 p.m., and Ruel followed shortly after.

Capt. Raphy Señeres, Santa Barbara police chief, said multiple gunshots were heard moments later.

Initial investigation showed Jethro shot Ruel five times — twice in the left side of his torso, twice in the back, and once in the abdomen.

The bar owner rushed the victim to the hospital, but he was declared dead on arrival.

Police arrested Jethro at the scene and recovered a .45-caliber pistol from his possession.

Jethro told investigators he shot Ruel after the latter allegedly took his mobile phone without permission.