Scout ranger killed in bar shootout

BACOLOD CITY: A member of the elite Philippine Army Scout Ranger unit died while four others were seriously injured in a shooting incident at a bar in Bacolod City early Wednesday morning.

The fatality was identified as Pfc. Edmark Iwayan, 26, a resident of Barangay Balintawak in Escalante City.

The injured were identified as Pfc.Joebert Villagracia, 29, a resident of Moises Padilla; Joseph John Magahum, 45, Ulysses Carampatana, 41, both residents of Sta. Lucia Subdivision, Barangay Taculing, Bacolod City; and Joebert Visem, 25, owner of To-Lips Restobar and a resident of Sipalay City.

The incident happened at the To-Lips Restobar in Barangay Singcang-Airport, Bacolod City at about 1:30 a.m. on Wednesday, November 16.

Maj. Joery Puerto, commander of Police Station 8, said the groups of Iwayan and Carampatana were having a drinking session inside the restobar when a heated argument ensued between them.

He said Carampatana, a bank accountant, allegedly pulled his gun and shot Iwayan.

He added that Carampatana, Magahum, and Visem were also hit by bullets when Iwayan’s companion fired back.

Villagracia was also injured after he was mauled by Carampatana’s drinking buddies.

They were rushed to a nearby hospital in the city.

Police recovered from the scene of the crime 11 fired cartridges of .9mm, five fired cartridges of .45 caliber, five deformed slugs, and one .45 pistol.

Police Station 8 is still conducting further investigation on the incident.

Lt. Col. Van Almonte, commanding officer of the 94IB, confirmed that Iwayan was under his command but was also a member of the 3rd Infantry Division.

Almonte said that the soldiers had earned credits, that was why they were allowed to go outside the camp.

“We are in the process of investigating what actually happened so we could inform his family,” Almonte said.