Media Release: Philippines April 23, 2013
The
International Federation of Journalists joins its affiliate the National Union
of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) in seriously condemning yet another killing
of a radio reporter in the Philippines.
Radio
broadcaster Mario Vendiola, was shot and killed about 11:45 am on Apr 22nd in Kabasalan, Zamboanga Sibugay. According
to reports, Vendiola, was driving his motorcycle on his way home from work when
he shot at least four times by two unidentified men riding in tandem using a
.45 calibre pistol as evidenced by spent shells recovered by police
investigators at the scene of the shooting.
Vendiola worked as an announcer for Radyo Natin, Kabasalan. He also worked as a
news correspondent for DXNC-Radyo Suhnan in the municipality of Siay. Police
investigators have not established a motive for the murder.
The Philippines is ranked as the second deadliest country in the world for
journalists and ranks third on the CPJ impunity index. Shootings by unidentified assailants on motorbikes has become the common
method of attack.
“The IFJ expresses its deep concern over the
continuing pattern of violence and attacks against the media in the
Philippines,” IFJ Asia-Pacific Director Jacqueline Park said. “As we approach World
Press Freedom Day on May 3, this journalist’s murder in the Philippines will serve
as a tragic reminder of the perilous situation for journalists throughout the
region. We call upon President Benigno Aquino III to end
the culture of impunity, which allows these killings to continue, and hold the perpetrators
accountable for their crimes.”
For further information contact IFJ Asia-Pacific on +612 9333 0950The IFJ represents more than 600,000 journalists in 131 countriesFind the IFJ on Twitter: @ifjasiapacificFind the IFJ on Facebook: www.facebook.com/IFJAsiaPacific
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