The International Federation of Journalists joins its affiliate the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) in seriously condemning yet another killing of a radio reporter in the Philippines.

 

Radio broadcaster Mario Vendiola, was shot and killed about 11:45 am on Apr 22nd in Kabasalan, Zamboanga Sibugay.  According to reports, Vendiola, was driving his motorcycle on his way home from work when he shot at least four times by two unidentified men riding in tandem using a .45 calibre pistol as evidenced by spent shells recovered by police investigators at the scene of the shooting.

 

Vendiola worked as an announcer for Radyo Natin, Kabasalan. He also worked as a news correspondent for DXNC-Radyo Suhnan in the municipality of Siay. Police investigators have not established a motive for the murder.

 

The Philippines is ranked as the second deadliest country in the world for journalists and ranks third on the CPJ impunity index. Shootings by unidentified assailants on motorbikes has become the common method of attack. 

 

“The IFJ expresses its deep concern over the continuing pattern of violence and attacks against the media in the Philippines,” IFJ Asia-Pacific Director Jacqueline Park said. “As we approach World Press Freedom Day on May 3, this journalist’s murder in the Philippines will serve as a tragic reminder of the perilous situation for journalists throughout the region. We call upon President Benigno Aquino III to end the culture of impunity, which allows these killings to continue, and hold the perpetrators accountable for their crimes.”