A drunk man was injured after he was shot by a policeman amid a tense encounter in Barangay Sta. Cruz, Antipolo City on Wednesday morning.

The suspect, identified only as alias Arle, is a resident of Grava Falls, Carolina Village, Sitio Leyva 2, Barangay Sta. Cruz.

At around 10:15 AM, barangay public safety officers and two police officers — Patrolmen Evan Borela and John Morris Morante — responded to a report of an alleged alarm and scandal in the area.

Upon arrival, the officers observed the suspect, who appeared to be intoxicated, armed with an improvised firearm (sumpak), and causing a public disturbance through scandalous acts.

The arresting officers attempted to de-escalate the situation through negotiation. However, during the course of their efforts, the suspect — acting with clear intent to kill — suddenly pointed the firearm at the officers.

Fearing for their lives and confronted with a life-threatening situation, Pat. Borela instinctively reacted to protect himself. When the suspect aimed the improvised firearm directly at him, the officer had only seconds to decide.

With no other choice, he discharged his service firearm, striking the suspect once in the lower body to disable and stop the threat.

The quick and decisive action ended the immediate danger, allowing the police officers to move in safely, disarm the suspect, and place him under arrest.

The improvised firearm, loaded with one live .38 caliber round, was secured by the arresting officers to prevent further risk to public safety and preserve evidence for investigation and prosecution.

The wounded suspect was immediately brought to the Rizal Provincial Hospital System–Annex 1 for treatment.

According to barangay records, the suspect is a known and notorious figure allegedly involved in multiple incidents of theft and robbery in the area.

Police are currently investigating the incident, while pertinent documents and evidence are being prepared for the filing of appropriate criminal charges against the suspect.