Police have launched a hot pursuit operation to arrest the suspect behind the shooting of a 54-year-old Bicolano radio broadcaster along Maharlika Highway in Guinobatan, Albay, morning on Monday, October 20, 2025.

According to Police Regional Office (PRO) 5 Spokesperson PltCol. Malu Calubaquib, the victim was identified as Noel Bellen Samar, a journalist affiliated with Kadunong iTV and DWIZ. 

He sustained a gunshot wound and was rushed to the Bicol Regional Training and Teaching Hospital (BRTTH) in Legazpi City, where he remains under medical care as of press time.

Police said the gunman immediately fled the scene after the attack, which occurred around 9:05 a.m. at Purok 3, Barangay Morera.

Upon receiving the report, officers from the Guinobatan Municipal Police Station responded and secured the area. They also launched a manhunt operation and coordinated with nearby municipal police stations to set up checkpoints for the possible capture of the suspect.

To strengthen the investigation, authorities have formed a Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) “Samar,” which will gather CCTV footage and interview witnesses to determine the suspect’s identity and motive.

Police Regional Office 5 Director PBGen Nestor C. Babagay Jr. condemned the attack and ordered all police units to fast-track the probe.

“Our efforts are in full motion. I have directed all our investigators to fast-track the investigation and leave no stone unturned until the suspect is identified, arrested, and held accountable for this ruthless act,” Babagay said.

“We condemn in the strongest possible terms this senseless act of violence against a member of the media who serves as a vital pillar of truth and public awareness. We stand with the victim, his family, and the media community in this difficult time. The PNP Bicol will pursue all leads and work tirelessly to uncover the motive and bring the perpetrator to justice,” he added.

Babagay reaffirmed the PNP Bicol’s commitment to protect journalists and uphold press freedom, emphasizing that “such acts of violence have no place in a democratic society.”

Authorities assured the public that all efforts are being made to solve the case swiftly and maintain peace and order in the region. 

Police also urged anyone with information about the suspect to come forward and help bring justice to the victim.