Police Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr., chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), directed the special investigation task group (SITG) handling the case of a slain radio broadcaster in Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro to immediately arrest the remaining at-large gunman, noting that his order is a “priority.”
PNP Chief Police Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr. (File photo)
Acorda ordered the “SITG Bunduquin” to thoroughly investigate the killing of Cresenciano Aldovino Bunduquin, 50, a radio host from DWXR101.7 Kalahi FM.
“The PNP Chief highlighted the capture of the remaining assailant as the top priority for the SITG,” Police Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan, chief of PNP public information office, said in a statement on Friday, June 2.
The SITG Bunduquin was created by the Mimaropa Police Regional Office (PRO-4B) under the command of its regional director, Police Brig. Gen. Joel Doria, in the immediate aftermath of the killing. The task group is being led by Police Col. Samuel Delorino, provincial commander of the Oriental Mindoro Provincial Police Office (PPO).
“Chief PNP Acorda emphasized that the police investigators in Calapan are thoroughly exploring various angles to identify the suspects and determine the motives behind the killing,” Maranan stated.
Bunduquin was shot dead by two motorcycle-riding suspects along C5 Road in Barangay Sta. Isabel, Calapan City last Wednesday, May 31.
One of the suspects, Narciso Ignacio Guntan, died when the motorcycle they were riding collided with another vehicle while as they were making good of their escape. The other suspect managed to flee.
Meanwhile, the PNP urged the public to come forward and assist in the investigation of they have any vital and verifiable information that might result to the identification of the escaped suspect.
“Furthermore, Chief Acorda wants to emphasize the utmost importance placed on the safety and well-being of members of the working press. While characterizing the incident as ‘isolated,’ he acknowledges the inherent risks that journalists face in the pursuit of their professional duties,” Maranan said.
Maranan noted that the PNP remains dedicate to uphold the rule of law, ensure the safety of the public, and protect the rights and freedoms of media professionals.