UNESCO condemns killing of GenSan journalist

MANILA, Philippines - The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) yesterday condemned the recent killing of General Santos City publisher and broadcaster Christopher Guarin and called on authorities to investigate it thoroughly.

“I call on the Philippine authorities to shed light on this crime and bring the perpetrators to justice,” said UNESCO Director-General Irina Bokova.

The head of the UN agency in charge of defending press freedom said, “It is crucial that such an act, which violates the fundamental right to freedom of expression, does not go unpunished.”

Guarin’s killing was the first in the world in 2012.

According to the non-government organization Reporters Without Borders, Guarin, a presenter on Radio Mindanao Network and editor of Tatak News Nationwide, was returning home with his wife and children last Jan. 5 when motorcycle-riding men opened fire on him.

Wounded, Guarin tried to escape, but his attackers shot him five times more.

Guarin’s wife said he had received various death threats in the past.

“This crime joins the long list of journalists who have been killed in the country since last year,” Bokova said.

“Journalists who cover news in the Philippines should be able to work safely in order to provide citizens with free information and nourish an informed debate,” Bokova added.