Metro Manila, Philippines – The Presidential Task Force on Media Security condemned the attack on broadcast journalist Jay Lavapiez in Barangay Cagay, Roxas City, on Monday morning, June 22.
Lavapiez, anchorman of Baskog Radio, was on his way to work when two gunmen on motorcycles blocked the journalist’s vehicle and began shooting at it.
Based on security camera footage released by Baskog Radyo on Facebook, Lavapiez drove into the sidewalk as the gunmen fled the crime scene.
Lavapiez was uninjured.
“We stand in solidarity with Mr. Lavapiez and all media professionals, reaffirming our commitment to safeguarding their rights and security. The freedom of the press is essential to our democracy, and we will continue to advocate for measures that protect those who strive to uphold this freedom every day,” the group said.
Authorities are investigating the shooting.
