Philippines journalist Julius Cauzo was shot dead on Thursday morning in the northern city of Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija. Cauzo was an anchor on Radio DWJJ, where he reportedly had expressed criticism of corruption in the city. However, it remains unclear whether his death was connected with his journalistic profession.
Cauzo was shot in the back by an unidentified gunman on a motorbike, which reportedly did not carry any number plate, according to information distributed by the Philippines Centre for Media Freedom and Responsibility.
“We urge Aquino’s administration to live up to their commitment and make the fight against impunity in crimes against journalists a top priority of their government,“ IPI Press Freedom Manager Barbara Trionfi said. “We extend our condolences to Julius Cauzo’s family, colleagues and friends.“
Condemning the killing, President Benigno Aquino’s spokesman, Edwin Lacierda, said that the police are investigating the case.
Three other journalists were killed this year in the Philippines most likely in connection with their work, according to IPI’s Death Watch. In spite of its rather free press, the Philippines is one of the deadliest countries for journalists in the world, with at least 107 journalists killed in the country since the year 2000. Impunity for the perpetrators of such crimes remains a major concern.