AN AMERICAN was shot and wounded by his Filipino friend who surrendered hours later amid a police manhunt operation in this city, the police reported Saturday, May 13, 2023.

Police Colonel Alexander Lorenzo, Zamboanga City Police Office (ZCPO) director, identified the victim as Aldo Berardi III, 50, a US citizen.

The suspect is the victim’s friend identified, Arnel Kalugdan, 51.

Lorenzo said the incident happened around 1:30 a.m. Saturday, May 13, at the residence of Kalugdan at Omar Drive in Talon-Talon, Zamboanga City where Berardi is staying while on vacation in the country.

Lorenzo said Berardi tendered a despedida party on Friday night, May 12, since he is scheduled to return to the United States.

He said investigation showed that the victim punched Kalugdan as a heated altercation ensued between them while they were having a drinking spree.

Lorenzo said Kalugdan suddenly pulled a handgun and shot Berardi twice.

He said that Berardi, who sustained two gunshot wounds, was rushed to the hospital for treatment. The victim is in stable condition.

The police launched a manhunt operation to arrest Kalugdan, who went into hiding after the incident.

Kalugdan surrendered around 5 a.m. Saturday, May 13, at Monserrat Drive in Baliwasan village after his relatives convinced him to surrender.

Lorenzo said appropriate charges will be filed against the suspect. (SunStar Zamboanga)