A local broadcaster was shot in Barangay Morera, Guinobatan, Albay at nine o’clock Monday morning, October 20.
Noel Bellen Samar, 54 years old, was shot while riding his motorcycle along Maharlika Highway in the said municipality.
The motive for the attack as well as the number of assailants are yet unknown.
Samar is affiliated with Kadunong ITV and radio station DWIZ in Legazpi City.
He sustained gunshot wounds to the chest and abdomen. He is now receiving critical medical treatment at a local hospital to stabilize his condition.
The Bicol Media Alliance immediately condemned the “cowardly attack,” saying it is “a direct affront to press freedom, truth, and the public’s right to information.”
“Any act of violence aimed at silencing members of the media has no place in a democratic and law-abiding society,” the local media group added.
The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) also condemned the “brazen attack,” adding it is actively monitoring the case and has deployed a team on the ground to ensure a thorough, impartial, and swift investigation.
The task force also said the Philippine National Police has launched a nationwide hot pursuit operation to apprehend the suspect or suspects.
A Special Investigation Task Group (SITG “Samar”) has been activated to lead the investigation, gather evidence, and identify those responsible, PTFOMS reported.
“More than just hunting down the gunman or gunmen, it is crucial that we uncover the motive behind this heinous attack and bring the masterminds to justice,” said Undersecretary Jose Torres Jr., PTFOMS Executive Director.
“This act of violence is not only an attack on Mr. Samar but also an assault on press freedom in the country. We must send a strong message that such acts will not be tolerated,” Torres said.
“The climate of fear and intimidation that threatens the lives of our journalists must end,” said Torres. # (Raymund B. Villanueva)