IFJ Demands Action Over Wave Of Media Killings As Two More Die In Philippines
BRUSSELS (IFJ/Pacific Media Watch):
The wave of killings that last year made the Philippines the most dangerous media hot-spot after Iraq is continuing into
2005, says the International Federation of Journalists with the shooting of two journalists in recent days that brings
the death toll since January last year to at least 15.
Romeo Sanchez, a broadcaster at DZNL radio in San FernandoCity, La Union, and a regional coordinator for the Bayan Muna
party was shot dead by a lone gunman on 9 March in Baguio. Arnulfo Villanueva, a columnist for the Asian Star Express
Balita newspaper was shot in a separate incident on 28 February. His body was found on a roadside in Naic,
CaviteProvince. Police suspect he was killed over his criticism of local officials over illegal gambling in Cavite.
"The ordeal of Filipino journalists will only end when these ruthless assassins are brought to justice," said Aidan
White, IFJ general secretary. "It's time for the authorities to do more to find the killers."
The IFJ says the government of President Glorio Arroyo must be seen to be pursuing the killers. "There needs to be
credible and extensive investigation of these deaths accompanied by a commitment to protect other journalists from
violence," said White.
The IFJ took some comfort from reports of the arrest of two alleged members of a rebel group in connection with an
attack on an outside broadcast van owned by the television network ABS-CBN. The suspects, believed to be members of the
Rebolusyonaryong Proletarian Army-Alex Boncayao Brigade (RPA-ABB), were identified by three witnesses as part of the
gang that set fire to the van valued at over US$625,000 on 11 January.
"This attack was a desperate attempt by a group of thugs to intimidate and undermine the work of one of the Philippines'
most influential media outlets," said White.
"It is an encouraging sign when those threatening press freedom and pursing violence are picked up," said White. "But we
need more action and we need it now".
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PACIFIC MEDIA WATCH ONLINE