THE Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) on Saturday, October 12, denounced the attempt on the life of Paterno Lucero Pacquiao, Davao del Norte public information officer and broadcaster of a local radio station.
Communications Secretary Martin Andanar, as co-chairperson of the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMs), already ordered the conduct of a special investigation to build a “solid” case against the perpetrators of the crime.
“PCOO condemns any act that threatens the well-being of media practitioners simply doing their job of informing the public. Our office is dedicated to creating an environment that fosters press freedom and where the media can work free of harm,” the Communications chief said.
“[The special investigation] will eventually attain justice for Mr. Pacquiao. We will closely monitor this development, and we are prepared to give necessary legal assistance,” he added.
Pacquiao, the head of Davao del Norte Provincial Information Office, survived an ambush in Tagum City on Friday, October 11.
He sustained a wound on his back after an armed assailant shot him while he was heading home after his morning program, 99.9 RP FM: Ang Radyo ng Masa, in Tagum City.
Pacquiao also serves as the radio station’s owner and manager.
Andanar enjoined authorities in Davao del Norte to closely investigate the shooting of Pacquiao to ensure the immediate arrest of the suspects.
“We hope for Mr. Pacquiao’s quick recovery and the speedy resolution of the incident,” he said.
“Moving forward, we in the PTFoMS will ensure the protection of the life, liberty, and security of all media workers in the Philippines,” Andanar added. (SunStar Philippines)