The Philippine National Police (PNP) has urged journalists experiencing threats or intimidation to immediately seek police assistance, as it intensified its investigation into the attempted killing of a broadcaster in Capiz.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said he has directed the Police Regional Office 6 (Western Visayas) and the Capiz Police Provincial Office to identify the gunman and determine the motive behind the attack on radio station manager Jay Lavapiez, known on air as “Papang Jay,” 48, of Baskog Radyo.
The directive follows orders from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., through the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), to strengthen protection for media workers and ensure swift resolution of attacks that threaten press freedom and public safety.
“I have directed the Police Regional Office 6 and the Capiz Police Provincial Office to conduct a swift, thorough, and evidence-based investigation to identify and hold the perpetrators accountable,” Nartatez said.
Lavapiez survived an assassination attempt in Roxas City early Monday, June 22, after a gunman fired at his Mitsubishi Adventure along Barangay Cagay at around 5:40 a.m. Four bullets from a 9mm pistol hit the vehicle, but he was not injured.
Police said the attack showed clear intent to kill. A special investigation team has been formed to determine whether the motive was linked to his work as a broadcaster or personal circumstances.
The PNP said it has also ordered all regional offices to monitor and respond to reports of threats against media practitioners nationwide.
“To our colleagues in the media who may feel vulnerable, the PNP stands as your partner in ensuring a safe environment for your profession,” Nartatez said.
He urged journalists facing threats to coordinate with local police or public information offices for security assessment and possible protection measures.