Radio broadcaster shot dead in Surigao

MANILA, Philippines — A radio broadcaster whose program tackled social issues, local governance and community concerns was shot dead in Surigao del Sur yesterday, President Marcos’ media security task force said.

In a statement, the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) said Erwin Labitad Segovia, host of the radio program “Diritsahan,” was shot and killed by an unidentified gunman yesterday morning at John Bosco Street in Barangay Mangagoy, Bislig City.

Citing initial police reports, PTFOMS said the 63-year-old host of Radio WOW FM had just finished his broadcast and was on his way home when he was followed by two unidentified persons on a black motorcycle.

Authorities are investigating the incident and are conducting a hot pursuit operation to arrest the perpetrators.

PTFOMS executive director Undersecretary Jose Torres Jr. said his office is coordinating with the Philippine National Police Media Vanguards and the Media-Citizen Council in Caraga region to expedite the investigation.

“We are already activating the Special Investigation Task Group on New Cases to look into this tragic incident,” Torres said.

He called on the public and the media community to remain vigilant and to share any information that can help the investigators.

“The safety of journalists remains a priority for the government, and justice for victims of media-related violence continues to be a national concern,” Torres added.