The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) in Region IV-B is undertaking an independent motu propio investigation on the shooting of radio broadcaster Cresenciano Aldovino Bunduquin in Barangay Sta. Isabel, Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro.

According to a police report, Bunduquin was shot several times in front of his store by motorcyle-riding men who stopped by his store in the early morning of 31 May 2023. Bunduquin’s son allegedly chased the assailants and accidentally bumped their motorcycle. One of the gunmen sustained injuries from the collision and eventually died while the other one escaped. The local police are looking at all possible angles and are still determining whether the killing is in connection with the media profession of Bunduquin.

CHR decries this latest incident of brazen media killing. We note the swift action of the Oriental Mindoro Provincial Police Office in creating a Special Investigation Task Group dedicated to the conduct of follow-up operations. We are hopeful that this effort will help ascertain accountability of perpetrators and bring justice to the victim and his family.

The Commission continues to call for strengthened mechanisms to ensure media safety and protection. The right to truth and information can only be fostered in an environment where media practitioners can do their work without fear of attack or reprisal. It is incumbent upon the State to ensure the resolution of all media killings and harassment to curb impunity and create an enabling environment for press freedom. ###