Int'l group calls for deeper probe into journalist killings

An international media group demanded Friday a full investigation of the murder of journalists in the Philippines in 2007, saying these attacks continue to put press freedom in jeopardy. The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) voiced outrage over the killing of broadcaster Fernando Lintuan in Davao City and former journalist Romelito Oval Jr - who are the latest victims of media attacks. "Five journalists as well as Oval were killed in the Philippines in 2007, which is shocking and reveals the extreme dangers that journalists face every day in trying to carry out their work," said IFJ Asia-Pacific director Jacqueline Park. Lintuan was shot dead in Davao City last December 24 after his radio program on dxGO. His companions Louie Ceniza and Edgar Banzon were unhurt but could not identify the attackers. Oval, a former journalist and consultant with Pilipino Bantay Kalikasan magazine, was found in a shallow grave near a lake in Barangay Sumilihon, Butuan City. "Government officials and police authorities must treat such attacks seriously and urgently. It is unacceptable that media professionals work in an environment of such danger, hostility and fear. There will be no press freedom in the Philippines until this (situation) changes," Park said. - GMANews.TV