The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) has condemned the shooting of 54-year-old radio broadcaster Noel Bellen Samar, which occurred earlier this morning at around nine o'clock along Maharlika Highway in Guinobatan, Albay. 

The radio commentator of Kadunong ITV and radio station DWIZ in Legazpi City, sustained gunshot wounds to the chest and abdomen. PTFOMS stated that the victim is now receiving critical medical treatment at a local hospital, with ongoing efforts to stabilize his condition. 

In response, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has launched a nationwide hot pursuit operation to apprehend the suspect or suspects. A Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) “Samar” has been activated to lead the investigation, gather evidence, and identify those responsible. 

The PTFOMS is actively monitoring the case and has deployed a team on the ground to ensure a thorough, impartial, and swift investigation. 

“More than just hunting down the gunman or gunmen, it is crucial that we uncover the motive behind this heinous attack and bring the masterminds to justice,” said Undersecretary Jose Torres Jr., PTFOMS Executive Director. 

“This act of violence is not only an attack on Mr. Samar but also an assault on press freedom in the country. We must send a strong message that such acts will not be tolerated.”

“The climate of fear and intimidation that threatens the lives of our journalists must end,” said Torres, adding that PTFOMS remains “committed to defending the rights of media workers to perform their duties without fear or harassment.”

“We stand unwaveringly with the media community during these difficult times, and we will do all we can to ensure their safety,” said Torres. 

A review of cases by PTFOMS reveals that since 1986, there have been 199 reported incidents involving violence or killings of media practitioners in the Philippines.

Of these, only 75 cases have been linked to their exercise of free expression and opinion. Conversely, 73 incidents were unrelated to their work, with no definite records on 12 cases.

The most tragic among these was the Maguindanao Massacre in 2009, where 32 journalists were murdered, marking one of the deadliest assaults against media in the country’s history.