BISLIG CITY, Surigao del Sur — Radio broadcaster Erwin Labitad Segovia, popularly known as “Boy Pana,” was shot dead by still unidentified assailants on Monday morning, 21 July, in Barangay Mangagoy, shortly after finishing his radio program.

Segovia, known for his hard-hitting commentaries on the program “Diritsahan!,” tackled pressing local issues, governance and community matters. According to initial police reports, he was on his way home when two unidentified men aboard a black motorcycle tailed and gunned him down, fatally shooting him before fleeing the scene.

Authorities have launched a hot pursuit operation, while the Special Investigation Task Group on New Cases is being mobilized to focus on solving the killing.

Undersecretary Jose Torres Jr., executive director of the Presidential Task Force on Media Security, condemned the attack and assured the public that his office is working closely with the Philippine National Police Media Vanguards and the Media-Citizen Council in Region 13 to expedite the probe.

“The safety of journalists remains a priority for the government and justice for victims of media-related violence continues to be a national concern,” Torres said, urging the public and fellow journalists to remain vigilant and report any leads that could aid the investigation.

Segovia’s death adds to the growing list of media workers killed in the line of duty, reigniting calls to strengthen protection mechanisms for journalists, especially those in local and community-based media.