In the wake of the tragic and brutal killing of Juan T. Jumalon, a radio anchor and station manager known as ‘Johnny Walker,’ Albay Governor Atty. Edcel Grex Burce Lagman has delivered a resolute message, calling for an immediate end to the violence against media professionals.
Governor Lagman called for unity and echoed the urgent need to protect and defend press freedom.
He emphasized that the freedom of expression, media freedom, and the safety of journalists, whether they belong to traditional media or the rapidly evolving realm of social media, are the bedrock of a vibrant democracy.
“A free, independent, and pluralistic media anchored in the principles of freedom of information and expression is the most crucial element of a functioning democracy,” he said.
Lagman also underscored the role and the significance of the media in society, especially in times of adversity.
“Let us remember that media freedom serves as the foundation for protecting various human rights. Instances of torture, discrimination, corruption, or the misuse of power that often remain shrouded in darkness have been exposed multiple times when illuminated by the light of truth, thanks to investigative journalists.”
In his condemnation of the senseless killings of journalists and media professionals in the country, Governor Lagman stressed that awareness and acknowledgment of the truth are essential and necessary steps in curbing human rights violations and establishing accountability in governance.
This heinous killing of Jamalon transpired on a fateful Sunday morning during his live broadcast on Gold FM 94.7, November 5, 2023, in Calamba, Misamis Occidental, sending shockwaves through the media community and society at large.
(Source: Albay Provincial Information Office)