The Philippine Online Chronicles

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has put the Philippines on par with Somalia as a “[leader] in the world league of infamy in media worker deaths this year.”

The killing of Surigao del Sur-based radio broadcaster Godofredo Linao marked the 6^th media-related killing in the Philippines this year.

“This latest murder fits the pattern of systemic violence against journalists in the Philippines and particularly radio broadcasters, whose professional work is to report and comment on controversial and sensitive issues,” said IFJ Asia-Pacific Director Jacqueline Park.

A statement released by the IFJ said, “In comparison to the staggering number of killings, trials have been few and actual convictions number a paltry three...This dismal track record in investigating the murders of media workers is feeding the climate of impunity enjoyed by the foes of free speech.”

Justice Undersecretary Ricardo R. Blancaflor who heads Task Force 211, which investigates journalist killings, insists that the team has made progress in investigating media-related deaths.

“They are really working," agreed Rowena Paraan of the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines.

“But that is not the only factor. We have yet to see any mastermind persecuted.”