By Josine F. Estuye
MANILA, Dec. 9 (PNA) -– Vice President Jejomar Binay on Monday called on the Philippine National Police to act on the persisting cases of media killings.
Binay expressed his concern, after two broadcasters have been shot dead in one week.
“The growing number of work-related murders of journalists and other media practitioners is alarming. I call on the PNP to put a stop to this spate of crimes,” Binay said.
“Media serve to promote and protect freedom of speech and expression, both of which are crucial in a democratic country like ours. We, in turn, must ensure that they are safe from any harm while doing their duties,” he added.
Two broadcasters namely Michael Milo of DXFM in Tandag, Surigao del Sur and Joas Dignos of DXGT in Maramag, Bukidnon were shot dead by unidentified gunmen on Dec. 8 and on November 29, respectively.
Milo, who hosted a daily radio show on alternative medicine and local issues in Tandag, was riding his motorcycle in the coastal city late Friday when men following him, also on a motorbike, shot him in the head.
Dignos, a blocktime commentator on the other hand was also shot dead by motorbike-riding assassins in Mindanao. CTB/JFE/UTB