PALAUIG, Zambales — Police are investigating the killing of two women whose bodies were found dumped along a canal early Thursday morning.

The victims were identified as 24-year-old Ericha Ednalaguim of Barangay Taltal, Masinloc, and a woman known as “Lengleng” from Tarlac Province.

Police Director Col. Benjamin Ariola has ordered Chief of Police Capt. Leoven Eduagen to lead a thorough investigation.

Both victims had sustained gunshot wounds. One had three shots to the back, while the other had a single fatal wound.

According to an initial police report, a resident heard a speeding vehicle around 3 a.m., followed by several gunshots.

The resident said they ignored the noise and went back to sleep. At around 6:30 a.m., the resident discovered the bodies in a nearby canal.