Misamis Occidental Broadcaster Jumalon Laid to Rest, Marcos Administration Vows Justice

Polanco, Zamboanga del Norte – The funeral of slain Misamis Occidental radio broadcaster Juan Jumalon, also known as DJ Johnny Walker, was held in Polanco on Sunday. Jumalon, who was shot in his home studio on November 5, was 57 years old at the time of his death.

According to Philippines News Agency, Undersecretary Paul Gutierrez, the executive director of the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS), visited the wake in Calamba town on Saturday, where he conveyed President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s assurance of justice. Gutierrez handed over financial assistance from President Marcos and House Speaker Martin Romualdez to Jumalon’s family. Gutierrez also met with Misamis Occidental police director Col. Dwight Monato to discuss the progress of the Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) Johnny Walker. The leads and possible motives being investigated are showing promise towards a swift resolution. A suspect, identified as a gun-for-hire in the province by three witnesses, is being pursued in connection to the murder and theft, with a computer-generated sketch released. The suspect’s name and background have been determined, marking a significant development in the investigation. Gutierrez emphasized the commitment to justice beyond sympathy and financial support, noting the efforts of law enforcement agencies to apprehend the suspects and potentially identify any masterminds behind the crime. A reward of PHP3.7 million has been promised for information leading to the arrest of the suspects, and the provincial police office has assured security for the Jumalon family.