DAVAO CITY, Philippines — A radio broadcaster who was ambushed in Central Mindanao a month ago succumbed to death on Sunday (Dec 1).
Radyo ni Juan Tacurong City station manager Benjie Caballero was critically wounded after shot by still unidentified gunmen in front of his house on October 30.
On Sunday morning, Caballero reportedly died of complications from pneumonia while still confined in Southern Philippines Medical Center in Davao City.
The death of Caballero brings the number of media killings related to work under Duterte administration to 15, according to the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP).
NUJP called for justice to Caballero’s death, urging the arrest of the perpetrators.
“We urge authorities to hasten their investigation into Benjie’s death and, most importantly, identify, arrest and prosecute his killers and whoever commissioned the hit on him,” the NUJP said in a statement.
Caballero’s death came just a week after media practitioners in the country commemorated the 10th year anniversary of Ampatuan Massacre, with still no suspects been convicted.
NUJP said: “Far too many of our colleagues’ murders remain unsolved, the lack of accountability emboldening others who wish to silence freedom of expression and the critical press. The only way to end this culture of impunity is to ensure that those responsible for these vile crimes are arrested, prosecuted and convicted.”
(davaotoday.com)
