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 dxNDProgramming 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.
For further
information contact IFJ Asia-Pacific on +612 9333 0918
The IFJ
represents more than 600,000 journalists in 131 countries
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