PNP: Journo slay in Oriental Mindoro an isolated incident

Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Police General Benjamin Acorda Jr. on Friday called the killing of a radio broadcaster in Oriental Mindoro an “isolated” incident.

“Chief Acorda wants to emphasize the utmost importance placed on the safety and well-being of members of the working press,” the PNP said in a statement.

“While characterizing the incident as ‘isolated’, he acknowledges the inherent risks that journalists face in the pursuit of their professional duties,” it added.

Acorda said the PNP was committed to protecting journalists and their freedom to report without fear.

"Our goal is to safeguard their freedom to report and uphold the principles of a free and independent press", he said

Investigators are thoroughly looking into different angles to identify the suspects and determine the motives behind the killing of the Oriental Mindoro radio broadcaster, said Acorda .

Authorities also obtained testimonies of some witnesses.

On Wednesday, radio broadcaster Cresenciano "Cris" Bunduquin was shot to death in Calapan City.

Police said one of the two suspects on board a motorcycle shot Bunduquin several times in front of his sari-sari store at 4:20 a.m.

Bunduquin was immediately rushed to the nearest hospital but was declared dead on arrival.

Police said after the suspects fled from the crime scene, Bunduquin’s son chased them and “accidentally bumped” into the suspects’ motorcycle.

The suspect identified as Narciso Ignacio Guntan sustained head injuries that caused his swift death, according to the police.

Meanwhile, the other suspect fled in an unknown direction.

A person of interest in the killing of Bunduquin had been identified, said Police Colonel Samuel Delorino, the Oriental Mindoro Provincial Police Office chief and Special Investigation Task Group commander. — DVM, GMA Integrated News