Palace condemns killing of Negros Occ journalist

Malacañang on Wednesday condemned the killing of former broadcaster Neil Aranga Jimena of Negros Occidental and assured the public that authorities are working for the speedy identification of his killers. “We condemn his murder and call on those who may have information concerning the case to swiftly contact the authorities," presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said in a press statement. Also, he said the full force of the law is being applied to track down Jimena’s killers. “We have tasked the PNP (Philippine National Police) to constantly update us on the progress of their investigation," he said. “To his loved ones, we extend our deepest sympathies and we will work to ensure justice is done," Lacierda added. Initial police investigation showed Jimena, 42, was on his way home when two men on a motorcycle attacked him. He sustained three gunshot wounds in the back and two more in his side, from a cal-.45 pistol. The shooting incident happened at Jacienda Teresa in E.B. Magalona town around 5:50 p.m. Monday. Jimena is the fourth journalist killed this year. The Committee to Protect Journalists had listed at least three Filipino journalists killed in 2011, including:

• Gerardo Ortega of RMN Palawan, January 24;
• Maria Len Flores Somera of dzME, shot in Malabon City, March 24; and
• Romeo Olea of dwEB in Iriga City in Camarines Sur, June 13.