NUJP condemns murder of Dumaguete broadcaster Edmund Sestoso

The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) on Tuesday condemned the murder of radio broadcaster Edmund Sestoso, who previously chaired the organization's Dumaguete City chapter.

The 51-year-old was shot by masked gunmen near his boarding house in Dumaguete on Monday. Sestoso succumbed to organ failure and shock brought by five gunshot wounds to his chest and lower limbs a day later.

In a statement, the NUJP demanded justice for the veteran broadcaster, saying he was the ninth journalist to be murdered under the presidency of President Rodrigo Duterte.

"The brazenness of the attack on Edmund and that it happened only three days before we commemorate World Press Freedom Day underscores how deeply the culture of impunity has rooted itself in our country, emboldening those who wish to silence not only the press but to control civic discourse in general by stamping out critical and dissenting voices," the organization said.

"We demand justice for Edmund and for all silenced voices."

The NUJP also called on the government to do as it is obligated and "protect the citizenry, uphold all basic democratic rights and stop vilifying those who freely express themselves."

Sestosa's death came exactly one year after he assumed anchorship of morning news program "Tug-anan Sa Power 91" at local radio station dyGB 91.7 FM.

Those who share his profession were urged not to be cowed by threats and attacks and "continue to serve the people’s right to know even as we advance the struggle for a truly free press." — Margaret Claire Layug/BM, GMA News