MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has initiated an investigation into the killing of a radio commentator who was running for a local post in Sultan Kudarat.
CHR spokesperson Jacqueline de Guia expressed concern over the killing of Jaynard Angeles of Radyo ni Juan Tacurong three days after the start of the election period.
Angeles, who was known for his hard-hitting commentaries on the “Tinig ng Bayan” program was running for councilor in Lambayong town.
“Election-related violence and the killing of journalists create a chilling effect on Philippine society and prevent the peaceful discourse of ideas in the runup toward elections,” De Guia said.
She urged the Presidential Task Force on Media Security to take cognizance of the incident and exert all effort with the Philippine National Police (PNP) to expedite the resolution of the case.
De Guia stressed the need to address media harassment and election-related violence ahead of the polls.
In response to the directive of Interior Secretary Eduardo Año, PNP chief Gen. Dionardo Carlos designated PNP spokesman Col. Roderick Augustus Alba and the chiefs of the regional police public information offices as focal persons on media security.
Año said the move is seen to protect media workers who may face threats during the election period.