Suspect in Percy Lapid slay kills self

MANILA, Philippines — One of the suspects in the killing of broadcaster Percival “Percy Lapid” Mabasa died after he shot himself during the service of his arrest warrant in Lipa City, Batangas, early Sunday morning, according to the police.

READ: PNP: No foul play in death of Lapid slay suspect

Maj. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., chief of the National Capital Region Police Office, said the suspect he identified only as Orly, who reportedly helped gunman Joel Escorial plan the attack against Lapid, held his partner and child hostage when lawmen arrived to arrest him.

Barangay officials and Orly’s relatives tried to negotiate with him, but he shot himself after releasing his hostages, Nartatez said. —Faith Argosino