Philippine broadcaster shot

Saturday 26 Nov 2011
Philippine radio commentator James Michael Licuanan survived a murder attempt in Cagayan de Oro City, on Mindanao island, Reporters Without Borders reports.

Mr Licuanan was badly wounded when he was ambushed and shot at around 9:30 p.m. as he was returning home on a motorcycle after hosting a programme on Bombo Radyo-Cagayan de Oro.

“We are outraged by the continuing violence against Philippine media,” Reporters Without Borders said. “This shooting, which is typical of the dangers accompanying media work in the Philippines, has again underscored the urgent need for the authorities to combat crimes of violence against journalists. It must be investigated thoroughly so that it does not go unpunished.”

Two gunmen on a motorcycle shot Mr Licuanan, who was seriously injured by a bullet that entered through the left buttock and exited through the abdomen.

His assailants continue to shoot after he fell from his motorcycle but he managed to take refuge in a nearby fire station while the gun men escaped.

He was unconscious when he reached the hospital but is no longer in danger.

Colleagues said Mr Licuanan received anonymous telephone threats two weeks ago after discussing a drug trafficking case and local corruption on the air. He had also accused police of colluding with drug traffickers.

Cagayan de Oro police chief Gerardo Rosales said the police believe the attack was linked to Mr Licuanan’s work as a journalist.

The Philippines is one of the world’s most dangerous countries for the media, with a total of seven journalists killed so far this year.