Another media man gunned down: ABS-CBN

MANILA, Philippines - Another member of the media was gunned down Saturday night, marking the first for President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III’s administration.

Police said 75-year old radio reporter and columnist Jose Dagio has just finished his dinner in his home in Tuga, Tabuk when an unidentified man gunned him down. He was rushed to the hospital but was declared dead upon arrival.

Dagio is a reporter for the “Radyo Natin Tabuk” and a columnist for a local paper in Kalinga Province.

Police are already investigating whether the killing is related to Dagio’s work. They are not setting aside the possibility however that it could be land-related.

Media groups there are already condemning the incident, the second attack against journalists in the area.

Last month, Radyo ng Bayan anchor Jerome Tabanganay narrowly escaped death when he was shot in front of the radio station.

He is now recovering from his gunshot wound.

Dagio’s death however comes barely a month after 3 media men were killed in separate incidents.

Broadcaster Desiderio Camangyan was shot dead last June 14 by a lone gunman while he was on stage hosting a village singing contest in Mindanao. Less than 24 hours later, radio commentator Lito Agustin was ambushed while on his way home.

A few days after, on June 19, Davao del Sur-based reporter Nestor Bedolido was also gunned down.

The latest incident now brings the death toll to more than 140, most of which happened during President Arroyo’s time.

The former president has been lambasted for such legacy, with the public still reeling from the Maguindanao massacre last November 23. The Philippines is considered one of the most dangerous places in the world for journalists. (With a report from ABS-CBN Isabela)


Link: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/07/04/10/another-media-man-gunned-down