Laoag City (CNN Philippines) — A hard-hitting columnist was shot dead last Friday night (September 4) in Pasuquin, Ilocos Norte.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) identified the victim as Steve Barreiro, 52 years old, a resident of Laoag City and a columnist of the Ilocos Times (IT).
Maria Stephanie, the victim’s daughter who was with him during the shooting, said she and her father stopped at a store in Barangay Poblacion around 10 p.m. after visiting a friend when a certain Boyet Doctor arrived.
“He suddenly shot my father several times causing his instantaneous death,” she narrated.
Witnesses said Doctor fled on a blue big bike after the shooting.
Nearby police stations immediately conducted dragnet operations to hunt down the suspect.
Ilocos Norte Gov. Imee Marcos condemned the killing of Barreiro and assured his family that justice would be served.
“We denounce this heinous crime, and we will make certain the perpetrators whoever they may be will be punished. We mourn Steve, a valued member of media and the Ilocano community,” Marcos said.
In 2009, Barreiro survived an attempt to his life when an unidentified person hurled a grenade at him while he was about to enter his home. He suffered injuries to his cheek and throat.
CNN Philippines’ stringer Jorge Guerrero contributed to this report.
