American shot dead by motorcycle-riding robbers in the Philippines

An American man was shot dead by motorcycle-riding robbers in the Philippines.

The alleged victim was walking through a narrow residential street when he was allegedly attacked by the helmeted muggers in Rizal, some 50 kilometres away from the capital Manila, on July 10.

The heavy-built American initially managed to fend off the pair as they tried to snatch his phone.

He was seen throwing punches and whacking the alleged suspects with an umbrella as they rode away on a motorbike.

But the riders soon circled back before pulling out a firearm and shooting him at close range.

CCTV footage showed the American crumpling to the ground as a pillion rider yanked his necklace and phone. They then fled on a black Honda PCX motorcycle.

Police said the driver was wearing a black helmet, blue raincoat, blue pants, and slippers, while his passenger wore a gray helmet, black raincoat, gray and black pants, and slippers.

The American, whose identity was not disclosed, was declared dead at the scene. He was reportedly living with his wife at an apartment in the area.

Recounting the incident, shocked neighbour Robert Javier said: 'When I stepped outside, I tried to greet him, asking, 'What's up?'.

'He didn't respond or turn around, but I heard him repeatedly saying, 'Come on, come on.' Moments later, another man rushed towards him, pulled out a gun and opened fire.

'The American's head hit the ground several times because they struggled to remove his necklace. I wanted to help him, but I was too scared because the gunman was still holding the weapon.'

Police Major Rodiard Dela Pena, chief of the Teresa Police Station, said the American died of two gunshot wounds.

He said: 'According to the initial investigation, he had one gunshot to the right arm, and one to his cheek.'

Authorities said they were working to identify and arrest the alleged suspects.