A radio broadcaster in the southern Philippines, known as DJ Johnny Walker, was fatally shot during a live broadcast in his studio. The attacker posed as a listener, gained access to the broadcaster’s home-based radio station, and shot him twice. The incident was witnessed by viewers on Facebook. The attacker stole the victim’s gold necklace and fled on a motorcycle with an accomplice. Authorities are investigating the incident to identify the assailant and determine if it was related to the victim’s work.
The Philippines has a long history of being a dangerous place for journalists, with numerous attacks on press freedom. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr strongly condemned the attack and called for the arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators. The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines reported that Juan Jumalon, the victim, is the 199th journalist killed in the country since 1986. The attack is especially troubling as it occurred in the victim’s home, which also served as the radio station’s location.
In a video of the attack, Jumalon is seen pausing before two shots are heard, leading to his slumping in his chair. He was pronounced dead while being transported to the hospital. Security cameras from the house and neighboring properties are being reviewed for any additional information.
This incident serves as a grim reminder of the dangers journalists face in the Philippines, which include political violence, unregulated firearms, and private armies controlled by powerful political clans. In 2009, a particularly deadly attack took place in Maguindanao province, resulting in the deaths of 58 people, including 32 media workers, highlighting the threats journalists encounter.
By AP
