The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) on Friday denounced the killing of radio broadcaster Nestor “Teting” Micator in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM)-Special Geographic Area.

In a statement, PTFoMS executive director Undersecretary Jose Torres Jr. called for a swift and impartial investigation into the fatal shooting, describing the incident as a grave attack on press freedom and public discourse.

“PTFoMS strongly condemns this act of violence and extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, colleagues, and listeners of Mr. Micator,” Torres said.

“The killing of any media practitioner is a matter of serious concern. Acts of violence against journalists undermine not only press freedom, but also the public’s right to information and the democratic space where issues affecting communities are discussed openly,” he added.

Micator, a news anchor and commentator of D’Empire Radio in Pikit, Cotabato, was about to board his motorcycle outside the barangay hall of Barangay Fort Pikit in Malidegao town on Thursday evening when he was shot by two unidentified assailants.

The suspect reportedly fled with an accomplice after the attack.

Authorities are investigating the motive behind the killing, including whether it was related to Micator’s work as a broadcaster or his role as a member of the Lupong Pambarangay (village council).

Torres expressed optimism that the perpetrators would be immediately arrested to ensure accountability and justice.

“We urge investigators to pursue all possible angles and ensure that those responsible are identified and brought to justice swiftly,” he said.

Torres said PTFoMS is closely coordinating with the Philippine National Police and other concerned agencies regarding the progress of the investigation.

He called on local authorities and residents to cooperate in efforts to identify the suspects and establish accountability.

“We reiterate our commitment to uphold the safety and security of media workers across the country and to strengthen mechanisms that protect journalists from threats, harassment, and violence,” Torres said.

Colleagues from print, radio, and digital platforms under the 6th Infantry Division "Kampilan" Press Corps strongly condemned the attack.

The press corps, which maintains a heavy presence in Cotabato and BARMM, appealed to the Philippine National Police and Malidegao municipal officials to launch a synchronized investigation, unmask the perpetrators, and file immediate criminal charges.

Investigators from the Malidegao Municipal Police Station are currently conducting backtracking operations to establish the motive and looking closely into Micator’s dual roles as a media practitioner and an active local politician.

The National Press Club of the Philippines called the incident a direct assault on democratic space and press freedom.

It condoled with Micator's family and demanded a swift, multi-angle investigation from the Philippine National Police (PNP).

“We at the NPC urge investigators to pursue all possible angles and ensure that those responsible are identified and brought to justice swiftly,” NPC President Leonel Abasola said. “Acts of violence against journalists undermine not only press freedom, but also the public’s right to information and the democratic space where issues affecting communities are discussed openly.” (with PNA)