Radio Broadcaster Killed in Maguindanao

September 5, 2012

Radio Broadcaster Killed in Maguindanao

The body of a radio blocktimer Eddie Jesus Apostol, who was reported missing last month, was recovered from the Liguasan Marsh near the town of Sultan sa Barongis in Maguindanao, Philippines on September 1.

According to the National Union of Journalists Philippines local Kidapawan Chapter, military spokesman, Col. Prudencio Asto, had said that Apostol was found hogtied and had been shot twice in the head. Apostol’s motorcycle and a still unknown sum of money were missing, although his press card was recovered from the area.

The motive behind the killing is unclear. Radio dxND Programming Director Malu Manar said Apostol covered local development issues on the “Konseho sa Kahanginan” program. Rep. Angelo Palmones of Agham Partylist sponsors the program.

Apostol was last seen “treasure hunting” with an unidentified man on August 20 near the border of Pikit, North Cotabaot and Datu Piang, Mindanao.

“The IFJ expresses deep concern over the continuing attacks on journalists in the Philippines throughout 2012.” IFJ Asia-Pacific Director Jacqueline Park said. “We call on the authorities of the Philippines to act quickly to establish the motive for the killing and bring the perpetrators to justice”.

The Philippines is amongst the most dangerous countries in the world for media workers. Over 160 journalists have been killed in the line of duty in the Philippines since 1986.

The IFJ represents more than 600,000 journalists in 131 countries

Find the IFJ on Twitter: @ifjasiapacific

Find the IFJ on Facebook: www.facebook.com/IFJAsiaPacific

ENDS

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