President Marcos Jr. Strongly Condemns Killing of Broadcaster in Misamis Occidental
CALAMBA, Misamis Occidental – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has publicly denounced the killing of a local broadcaster who was fatally shot during a live stream of his radio program.
According to Philippines News Agency, he expressed his vehement condemnation of the murder of 57-year-old Juan Jumalon, also known as DJ Johnny Walker of Calamba Gold FM 94.7. The incident occurred in the broadcaster’s home studio in Purok 2, Barangay Don Bernardo A. Neri at around 5:35 a.m. on Sunday. Jumalon was declared dead on arrival at Calamba District Hospital after the attack, which was caught on camera during his live-streamed program ‘Pahapyod sa Kabuntangon.’
President Marcos Jr. has instructed the Philippine National Police (PNP) to initiate a comprehensive investigation to expedite the apprehension of the culprits. The President emphasized that assaults on members of the press are unacceptable in a democratic society and pledged that those compromising press freedom would face the full extent of the law.
The Calamba Municipal Police Station is actively pursuing the identities of the assailants, caught on closed-circuit television footage entering Jumalon’s residence. Capt. Diore Ragionio, Officer-in-Charge of CMPS, mentioned that eyewitnesses are providing statements at the Police Regional Office-10 to assist with the ongoing investigation.
PRO-10 Director, PBGen. Ricardo Layug Jr., confirmed that they are considering various motives behind the killing and are committed to a thorough investigation to deliver justice. The distressing footage not only captured the shooting but also showed the assailant taking what appeared to be Jumalon’s necklace.
The attack has drawn widespread condemnation from media organizations and officials. The incident, occurring shortly after the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, has heightened concerns over the safety of journalists. Undersecretary Paul Gutierrez highlighted the establishment of a Special Investigation Task Group to address the murder thoroughly.
Local government and media bodies, including the Mindanao Independent Press Council and the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines, have expressed outrage and sadness over Jumalon’s death, calling for increased vigilance among journalists. Misamis Occidental Gov. Henry Oaminal joined the chorus of condemnation, recognizing Jumalon’s courage as a broadcaster.
In a related development, the Cagayan de Oro Press Club addressed a separate incident of “doxxing” against its members, urging the City Housing and Urban Development Department to collaborate in investigating and addressing the breach of privacy.