Media Calls on Police to Hasten Investigation on Belen Murder Try

Nabua, Camarines Sur (16 July) -- Suspects of the foiled attempt to kill another media man are still at large and currently the subject of police manhunt as of press time.

This, after a radio field reporter was seriously wounded when he was shot by motorcycle-riding gunmen on his way home, Friday night on July 9, 2010.

In a report sent by Lt. Col. Ernersto Cruz of the 42nd Infantry Battalion, Miguel Belen, 48 years old was on board his motorcycle at around 8:30 PM when unidentified gun men suddenly fired a Cal.45 pistol on him causing him to sustain multiple gunshot wounds.

Belen was immediately rushed to the nearest hospital and is now recuperating from his wounds while police authorities are still looking into various angles as to the motive of the assault.

In the wake of this incident, Emman Llagas, Camarines Sur KBP Chairman and Station Manager of Energy-FM here in Naga City, called on his colleagues to be more vigilant and observe safety precautions, especially when dealing with sensitive issues concerning their points of discussion or commentaries.

"Our job as watchdogs of our society can cause us our very own precious lives, in the name of public service and in search for truth and justice. Yet we also have to protect ourselves and be watchful on how we deal with certain issues."

Llagas also called on the authorities and concerned agencies to hasten the investigation and bring the perpetrators behind bars.

"KBP condemns in its strongest terms the attempt on the life of Mike Belen. We are raising the challenge to the Philippine National Police (PNP) to do their best and run after the ruthless perpetrators and the Department of Justice (DOJ) to bring justice to the victim. I am also appealing to my fellow media men to observe utmost responsibility in performing their duties and most of all, stay alive," Llagas said in an interview.

PNP Camarines Sur Provincial Director P/SSupt. Jonathan Ablang said that the PNP is now on its toes working for the immediate identification of the suspects. Task Force Belen was then created, with Ablang himself as head. The official also gave an announcement that all the official statement will only come from him to avoid misconceptions that might mire the said investigation.

Belen was a former barangay captain at Barangay Francia, Iriga City. He joined the media workforce after retiring from public service one month before the election. (PIA CamSur)