Soldier Shot Dead by Senior Officer

By Glazyl Y. Masculino

BACOLOD CITY—A soldier was shot and killed by a senior officer during a drinking session at an Army detachment camp in Sitio Barasbarasan, Barangay Manlucahoc, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental, on Monday night.

Initial police investigations revealed that the victim, a 36-year-old corporal from Iloilo City, sustained gunshot wounds to his left arm and chest.

The incident occurred during a birthday celebration at the 15th Infantry Battalion (IB) detachment camp, where the victim and the suspect, a 43-year-old staff sergeant from Lanao del Norte, were drinking together. A misunderstanding reportedly escalated into a commotion, during which the suspect allegedly drew a firearm and shot the victim.

The victim was rushed to a hospital but was pronounced dead.

The suspect was disarmed and taken into custody.

Brig. Gen. Joey Escanillas, commander of the 302nd Infantry Brigade, said the Army is coordinating with police on the investigation.

Escanillas stated that drinking alcohol inside detachment camps is prohibited, as soldiers are tasked with maintaining peace and order. He emphasized that those who allowed the drinking session to occur could face administrative penalties.

Apart from facing criminal charges, the suspect could also face administrative sanctions, which may result in his dismissal from the service.

Escanillas stressed that the incident was isolated, noting that troops are regularly trained and reminded to maintain proper conduct within camps.

Separate Shooting in Talisay City

Meanwhile, in Talisay City, a 23-year-old man was fatally shot at Catamnan 1, Barangay Concepcion, early Monday morning.

Police reported that the victim was sitting on a chair during a barangay fiesta when an unidentified gunman wearing a black jacket, white shorts, and a wig approached and shot him with an unknown firearm.

The victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was declared dead at a hospital.