TACLOBAN CITY – A journalist was shot dead inside their store around 6:30 P.M. Wednesday (December 8) in Calbayog City, Samar.
Police identified the victim as Jesus “Jess” Malabanan, 58, a correspondent for Manila Standard, Bandera, and Reuters; and a resident of Langka St., Angeles City, Pampanga.
Initial investigation disclosed that the victim was watching television when his wife heard a gunshot at close range.
However, she was not able to identify the two assailants who shot her husband on his head using an unidentified caliber of firearm.
The suspects fled right after the incident towards North.
Malabanan was brought to St. Camillus Hospital in Calbayog for medical treatment but was declared dead on arrival by the attending physician.
The Pampanga Press Club condemned in the strongest terms the killing of one of its members.
"Jess to many among us, a long-time reporter and stringer for many media outfits for many years, had proven himself to be a man dedicated to his duties as a journalist."
They also called on the Philippine National Police and other authorities to help in the prompt investigation that would lead to the arrest of the perpetrators of the "cowardly act in the interest of justice."
The Police Regional Office 8 has yet to release a statement pending the ongoing investigation of the incident.