Three men slain in Bulacan drug war

BULACAN -- Three drug suspects were killed in alleged shootouts with police officers in this province on Aug. 17.

The fatalities were identified as Julius Ace Lavarro, Alfie Garcia and Harold Sunpongco.

Lavarro reportedly opened fire at the officers who were about to arrest him following a sting in Barangay Bambang, Bulakan at around 11:55 p.m., according to Col. Chito Bersaluna, Bulacan police director.

Bersaluna said the police officers retaliated, killing Lavarro at the scene.

Probers recovered from the suspect 18 plastic sachets containing shabu and marijuana, and a pistol.

An hour earlier, Garcia was killed in an encounter in Barangay Sampaloc, San Rafael town.

Bersaluna said Garcia pulled out a gun and shot at the officers after sensing that he was dealing with undercover agents.

Police said they recovered a .38 caliber revolver and six plastic sachets containing shabu from Garcia.

Sunpongco was killed in another encounter in Barangay Poblacion, Norzagaray.

Probers said a .38 caliber revolver and four plastic sachets containing shabu were found from the suspect.