The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) strongly condemned the killing of broadcaster Julito “Jaz” Diamante Calo of La Castellana on March 20, highlighting the growing threats to press freedom and journalist safety in the country.

Calo, who hosted the program “Waswasanay sa Quinto Distrito” on 88.3 DNN News FM in Himamaylan City and also worked as a job order employee in the local government, was shot in front of his home.

Initial police reports indicate that a white SUV approached from La Carlota City, and an assailant fired at Calo before fleeing toward La Castellana town center.

The PTFOMS extended condolences to Calo’s family, friends, and colleagues, calling his death a stark reminder of the risks faced by media practitioners in the line of duty.

Authorities have coordinated with local law enforcement to prioritize and expedite the investigation.

The Task Force urged the public, media organizations, and civil society groups to remain vigilant and assist in providing any information that may help resolve the case.

Officials stressed that safeguarding press freedom requires collective action to ensure the protection of journalists nationwide.