Radio commentator’s killer identified

CAMP VICENTE LIM, Laguna, Philippines — The gunman in the killing of radio commentator Cresenciano Bundoquin in Calapan, Oriental Mindoro on Wednesday has been identified.

Capt. Ann Michelle Selda, Oriental Mindoro police public information officer, said a manhunt for the assailant is ongoing.

“Through the recovered identification card and other documents in the trunk of the motorcycle used in the crime... investigators were able to identify the suspect tagged as the gunman. We cannot divulge his identity due to ongoing operation,” Selda said.

She said a special task group investigating the killing is looking at all possible motives.

Col. Samuel Delorino, Oriental Mindoro police director, said a murder case would be filed against the suspect.

One of the suspects, Narciso Guntan, died due to head injuries when he fell from the motorcycle that was hit by the car of Bundoquin’s son who gave chase.

The gunman managed to escape on foot.

Bundoquin, 50, a resident of Barangay Canubing II and commentator of dwXR 101.7 Kalahi FM and MUX online radio, was in front of his sari-sari store when he was shot.

Local and international media organizations called for a thorough investigation into the killing.

Shawn Crispin, senior Southeast Asia representative of the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), said the incident highlights the continuing threats faced by Filipino journalists.

“Until the Philippine government shows it is serious about ending impunity in media murders, such killings will likely continue,” Crispin said.

The CPJ said authorities should determine if Bundoquin was targeted due to his work and bring the perpetrators to justice. – Janvic Mateo