Groups seek probe into radioman’s killing (9:56 a.m.)
MANILA — International media watchdogs demanded a swift investigation into the killing of a radio commentator, saying Tuesday that it looks like another in rash of assassinations of outspoken journalists.
Ernesto Rollin, production manager and commentator of Radio DXSY in southern Nisamis Occidental province, was waiting for a ride to work Monday when one of two gunmen on a motorcycle shot him several times, killing him instantly, police said.
Police said the motive for the killing was not clear. Station manager Alex Sy said apart from hosting a morning program in which he discussed public complaints and issues, Rollin was on the payroll of local politicians and acted as their spokesman during elections.
The Paris-based Reporters Without Borders said the way Rollin died “indicates it was a contract killing ordered by Rollin’s enemies and carried out by professional hit men.”
Bob Dietz, the Asia coordinator for the New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists, said the reason for Rollin’s killing was not yet clear “but the circumstances strongly resemble the frequent assassinations of Philippine journalists for their outspoken reporting.”
Political killings have long been a concern in the Philippines, where about 60 journalists have been slain since 2001, including six last year, making the country one of the world’s most dangerous places for reporters.
Government prosecutors earlier this year filed murder charges against a police officer in the August 2008 killing of Dennis Cuesta, program director of Radio Mindanao Network in General Santos City, also in the volatile southern Philippines. (AP)
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