No Pattern In Media Killings – PNP

Three Special Investigation Task Groups (SITG) looking into three separate incidents of violence involving media personnel in Bukidnon, Surigao and Davao recently, do not see any common pattern among the cases.

The Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management (DIDM) thru Task Force USIG is keeping tab of all ongoing investigation into cases of violence committed against working journalists.

“At this early stage of investigation, there are no peculiar indications of a link that can connect the three incidents,” according to PNP Chief, Director General Alan L Purisima.

The Chief PNP nonetheless expressed confidence that SITGs formed by the concerned Police Regional Offices will be able to achieve significant breakthrough in the investigation of these cases.

He assured national media organizations of focused attention by dedicated SITGs composed of seasoned crime investigators backed by forensic examiners, legal team, intelligence support, and local police.

Purisima said Task Force USIG is paying particular attention to the recent shooting of broadcaster Michael Diaz Milo, 34 of Prime Radio FM in Tandag City, Surigao del Sur last December 6; the shooting of broadcaster Jash Dignos, 48 in Valencia City, Bukidnon last Nov 29; and the shooting of broadcaster Rogelio Butalid, 44 in Tagum City, Davao del Norte last December 11.

In the case of Dignos, Northern Mindanao police has filed a case for Murder against an identified suspect and several John Does. The suspect was identified thru a computerized facial composite provided by NBI based on descriptions provided by a key witness.

SITG “Milo”, on the otherhand, initially ruled out the killing of Milo as work-related in the light of other possible motives such as his strained relationship with his estranged wife and in-laws, including the fact that his particular radio station is not engaged in hard-hitting commentaries but in promotion of alternative natural healing products, and reports that he figured in a fight with another person last month.

Another SITG looking into the slay of Rogelio Butalid in Tagum City have already come up with an artist’s sketch of the gunman based on descriptions provided by a witness. (PNP-PIO)