Many embassies have joined Canada and the Netherlands in urging justice for broadcast commentator Percival Mabasa. He was slain by two unidentified assailants on his way to work on 3 October.
In a statement, the British Embassy in Manila expressed full support for Canada and the Netherlands’ statement, which expressed grave concern over the brutal killing of a journalist.
“(The UK Embassy in Manila) fully supports the statement of the Media Freedom Coalition. We urge the Filipino authorities to ensure that the perpetrators of the killing of Percival Mabasa are brought to justice and to create a safe environment for all journalists in the Philippines,” it said.
Separate tweets expressed solidarity with Mabasa’s family from the European Union in the Philippines as well as Danish and French embassies.
“France reaffirms its resolute, unwavering commitment to the freedom of the press, freedom of speech and protection of journalists,” the French Embassy in Manila said.
READ: PNP forms task force to probe veteran broadcaster’s slay
According to a joint statement by Canada and the Netherlands, journalist killings can “create a chilling effect that curtails the ability of journalists to report news freely & safely.”
The report welcomed the launch of an investigation into Mabasa’s slay and at the same time urged authorities to “take concrete steps to ensure not only that the perpetrators are brought to justice, but to create a safe environment for journalists to carry out their work without fear for their lives and safety.”
Percival Mabasa, also known as Percy Lapid, hosts the show “Lapid Fire” on radio station DWBL and is the older brother of veteran journalist and former National Press Club president Roy Mabasa.
Bereaved family members say they are “deeply saddened and angered” by the brutal murder of the hard-hitting broadcaster and insist the perpetrators be held accountable.
“We strongly condemn this deplorable crime; it was committed not only against Percy, his family, and his profession, but against our country, his beloved Philippines, and the truth,” a family statement posted by Roy Mabasa read.
“Percy was beloved by many and highly respected by peers, fans and foes alike. His bold and sharp commentaries cut through the barrage of fake news over the air waves and on social media. We demand that his cowardly assassins be brought to justice,” the family said.
Article Source: Joyce Ann L. Rocamora/PNA
READ MORE
- Young Filipino-Australian wins prestigious journalism fellowship award
- Journalist Maria Ressa receives Nobel Peace Prize in Norway
- Records of the Declaration of Martial Law in the Philippines 50 years ago
