NUJP pays tribute to slain ‘true-blue newsman’ Joel Palacios

The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) on Wednesday paid tribute to slain former veteran journalist Joel Palacios, describing him as an "uncompromising advocate of freedom of the press and of expression."

"Manong Joel was a true-blue newsman of more than 30 years's experience — from senior staff writer for Reuters, to posts as sub-editor, editor or columnist in major newspapers such as the Philippine Daily Inquirer, Manila Bulletin, Today and Manila Standard — who, even during his stints in government, notably as spokesman of the Social Security System, maintained his intimate links to the profession and was a very good friend to many, the NUJP among them," the media group said in a statement.

"The NUJP will never forget how he was instrumental in the holding of our 2004 National Congress. Mabuhay at paalam Manong Joel! Maraming salamat sa lahat ng iyong nagawa upang maisulong ang malayang pamamahayag!" the media group added.

Palacios was among the victims in a stabbing incident inside the 25-storey Central Park Tower Condominium in Pasay City on Tuesday night. His wife, meanwhile, suffered injuries from the incident.

National Capital Region Police Office chief Director Oscar Albayalde said operatives killed the suspect, identified as Robert Garan, when he was cornered on the 22nd floor of the building. — Anna Felicia Bajo/MDM, GMA News