By Jennifer P. Rendon
A security guard allegedly under the influence of alcohol while on duty is facing charges of grave threats and alarm and scandal after threatening a colleague with a firearm.
The suspect, identified as Jeran Espinosa, 39, of Barangay Poblacion, Ajuy, Iloilo, is employed by U8SAI Security Agency and assigned to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Region 6 office.
The incident occurred around 5:50 p.m. on December 25 along Muelle Loney Street in Barangay Concepcion, City Proper, Iloilo City, according to police reports.
Ramil Jay Aaron, 31, of Barangay Agusipan, Badiangan, Iloilo, the outgoing duty guard, stated that he instructed Espinosa to ask permission from their chief security officer before assuming his post.
Espinosa allegedly became irate, took their service firearm from a cabinet, cocked it, and pointed it at Aaron.
Fearing for his life, Aaron fled, but Espinosa reportedly chased him.
Officers from the Iloilo City Police Station 1 responded to the scene and apprehended Espinosa, who was found brandishing a firearm while walking along Muelle Loney Street.
Authorities recovered an Armscor shotgun with serial number 1057923, loaded with three cartridges, from Espinosa’s possession.
The incident caused alarm among nearby residents, who expressed fear following the commotion.
Formal charges have been filed against Espinosa, marking a troubling Christmas Day for those involved.
