IFJ: Act promptly on radio anchor's killing
The International Federation of Journalists today urged the Philippine government to act promptly in solving the killing of a female radio anchor in Malabon City.
The IFJ demanded a thorough investigation into the killing of dzME anchor Marlina "Len" Flores Sumera (pic right).
"The IFJ implores authorities in the Philippines to bring those responsible for Ms Sumera's murder to justice, and break the cycle of violence and impunity that has plagued the country for so long," IFJ Asia-Pacific Director Jacqueline Park said.
"We welcome the establishment of a Special Investigation Task Group to investigate her murder and hope that police and the judiciary see that her death does not go unpunished," Ms Park added.
Ms Sumera, an anchor with dzME radio station, was shot dead near her home in Malabon City as she was preparing to go to dzME studios to host a public service programme.
Although she was rushed to hospital, she was pronounced dead on arrival. Police said one possible motive involves an alleged land dispute.
While dozens of radio broadcasters have been killed in the Philippines, few have been killed in Metro Manila and even fewer have been women.
The IFJ said the Philippines is among the most dangerous countries in the world for media personnel.
"Ms Somera is the third journalist killed in 2011, following Palawan's Gerardo Ortega and Abra's Cirilo Gallardo. She is survived by her husband and three children," the IFJ said.
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