RP back on top of list of most dangerous countries for journalists

MANILA, Philippines - With two attacks on radio anchormen this week alone, the Philippines again tops of the list of most dangerous countries for journalists, an international media group said Friday. The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) mourned the attacks that killed Martin Roxas of Radio Mindanao Network in Roxas City, and seriously wounded Dennis Cuesta in General Santos City. "It is with great distress that the IFJ reports that Roxas' murder and the attack on Cuesta have seen the Philippines return to the top of the most dangerous countries in the Asia-Pacific region for journalists so far in 2008," IFJ Asia-Pacific said on its website. Cuesta is still fighting for his life after being shot in General Santos City Monday, while Roxas was killed after he was shot three days later. IFJ noted that Roxas is the "fourth journalist to be murdered this year and the 59th since President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo took power in 2001." In the statement, the group welcomed the creation of a joint military and police task force to investigate Roxas' killing, and the arrest of two suspects in the shooting. "The IFJ welcomes reports that the Capiz provincial police have established a task force to investigate Roxas' shooting and that two persons have been detained," IFJ said. IFJ also joined the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines in appealing to the RMN network and local authorities to provide extra security and protection for journalists, particularly as they travel to and from work. "Only through public condemnation and the active pursuit of justice will authorities send a clear message that such heinous attacks will not be tolerated," IFJ said. The IFJ also extended its deep sympathy to Roxas' family and friends, to the NUJP, and to RMN for the shocking attacks on two of its journalists this week. IFJ represents over 600,000 in 122 countries worldwide. - GMANews.TV