DILG Condemns Brutal Killing Of Misamis Occidental Radio Anchor
Screengrab from CCTV viral
In a statement, Benhur Abalos, head of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), has unequivocally condemned the heinous murder of radio anchor Juan Jumalon in Misamis Occidental.
The incident, which occurred yesterday, has sent shockwaves through the nation, raising concerns about the safety of journalists and the state of press freedom in the country.
Abalos expressed his outrage, stating, "Walang lugar ang karahasan sa ating bansa!" (There is no place for violence in our country!)
He further emphasized, "Inaaatasan ko ang PNP na agarang aksyunan at panagutin ang may sala. Hindi ko kayo titigilan hanggang mabigyan ng hustisya ang biktima. Tutugusin ka namin!" (I am instructing the Philippine National Police to take immediate action and hold the perpetrators accountable. I will not rest until justice is served for the victim. We will pursue you!)
President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. has directed the Philippine National Police to initiate a thorough investigation into the incident.
The Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) "Johnny Walker" has been activated to identify and apprehend the assailants responsible.
As part of their ongoing efforts, the SITG has already created a computerized facial sketch of one of the suspects, which has been made public for identification.
Additionally, the SITG has conducted ballistics analysis, matching the shells and slug found at the crime scene. The authorities have also enhanced the CCTV footage with the assistance of the PNP Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit, aiming to expedite the process of identifying the culprits.
"We expect to have breakthroughs in this case at the soonest time possible," Abalos assured the public, promising swift action against the perpetrators.
He extended his deepest sympathies to the family of Juan Jumalon, offering reassurance that both the DILG and the police are fully committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice.
The brutal killing of Juan Jumalon has sparked widespread outrage, highlighting the urgent need for concrete measures to ensure the safety of journalists and protect the fundamental principles of press freedom and democracy in the Philippines.