PNP seeks measures to protect journalists

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine National Police (PNP) will discuss with the National Press Club (NPC) measures to protect journalists in the wake of the killing of Cabanatuan City broadcaster Julius Ceasar Cauzo.

“We have started coordinating with the NPC on how to best secure the safety and protection of journalists. We would like to know how security arrangements could be made,” PNP chief Director General Nicanor Bartolome told The STAR the other day.

Bartolome said he is monitoring developments in the investigation into Cauzo’s killing. He said investigators are following some leads but refused to elaborate.

Senior Superintendent Walter Castillejos, Nueva Ecija police director, said at least three witnesses are helping police identify the killer.

“They are now giving a description of the gunman, who was riding a motorcycle when he shot Cauzo, who was also driving his motorcycle,” Castillejos said.

“We hope to identify the gunman and eventually the mastermind, if there is one,” he said.

Castillejos said Task Group Cauzo led by Superintendent Eli Depra, Cabanatuan City police director, is still looking into the motive behind the killing.

“The motive of the killing could be work-related or personal,” he said.

He said he instructed the task force to visit the crime scene and look for any witness that could lead to the early solution of the case.

Cauzo, 52, a resident of Talavera, Nueva Ecija, was shot dead upon reaching Barangay Aduas Centro in Cabanatuan.

He suffered three gunshot wounds in different parts of the body and was pronounced dead on arrival at the Good Samaritan Hospital in Cabanatuan.