Journos get gun handling tips

CEBU, Philippines - Due to the history of violence involving media practitioners, the Provincial Intelligence Branch shared with journalists in Cebu the fundamentals of proper gun handling, target setting, and live firing.

The group emphasized the initiative was not meant to encourage media practitioners to carry guns but simply make them more aware of gun safety and security.

“With the history of media killings in the past, this could help you in the future,” PIB head Supt. Rodulfo Albotra Jr. said.

He added that proper training and knowing the basics of using a firearm are beneficial to anyone who is in a profession that courts security risks.

“Threat is always everywhere. It  is better if you are always prepared,” Albotra said.

The journalists who participated in the activity were briefed on the do’s and don’ts in handling firearms before they were allowed to fire a gun live. PIB personnel attended to the participating personally to ensure safety.

According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, 76 journalists have been killed in the Philippines since 1992. Of this number, 62 percent were killed in relation to politics, 42 percent were killed for exposing corruption, and 24 percent were killed while covering crime stories.

The latest journalist to be killed was Joas Dignos, 49, of Valencia City, Bukidnon who worked for DxGT radio. He was known for his highly critical on-air commentaries about local officials who are allegedly corrupt.

In November 2013, he was gunned down by motorcycle-riding men, the bullets hitting him in the head and chest.

Others journalists killed in recent years were Fernando Solijon of DxLS Love Radio in Iligan City and Mario Sy, a freelancer from General Santos City who were both killed on August 2013. Gerardo Ortega of DwAr in Puerto Princesa City was killed in January 2011, Romeo Olea of DwEB in Iriga City was killed in June 2011, Christopher Guarin of Radyo Mo Nationwide and Tatak News in General Santos City was killed on January 2010, and Joselito Agustin of DzJC in Baccara was killed in June 2010.

In 2009, at least 34 journalists were killed during the now famous massacre in Ampatuan town in Maguindanao.

Following the activity, Albotra reminded the mediamen that anyone who intends to own a gun must have the firearm registered and the owner must acquire a permit to carry (PTC).  (FREEMAN)