A radio broadcaster was shot dead in Barangay Mangagoy, Bislig City, Surigao del Sur morning on Monday July 21, 2025, the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) reported.

PTFOMS identified the victim as Erwin Labitad Segovia, 63, a host of the program that reportedly tackles social issues, local governance, and community concerns.

PTFOMS said based on police reports, the victim had just finished his program and was heading home when two unidentified individuals on board a motorcycle followed him.

Authorities have launched a hot pursuit operation to arrest the perpetrators.

"We are already activating the Special Investigation Task Group on New Cases to look into this tragic incident," PTFOMS Undersecretary and Executive Director, Jose Torres Jr., said.

Torres said his office is already coordinating with the Philippine National Police Media Vanguards and the Media-Citizen Council in Caraga to speed up the investigation.

He also urged the media community and the public to stay vigilant and report any information that would help fast track the probe.

"The safety of journalists remains a priority for the government, and justice for victims of media-related violence continues to be a national concern," Torres added.

Torres also said the incident underscores the need to strengthen the protection for journalists in the Philippines.