Gov’t condemns killing of reporter, orders local police to conduct probe

MANILA, Philippines — The government has condemned the killing of reporter and radio anchor Orlando “Dondon” Dinoy and ordered the Davao del Sur police to conduct a thorough probe, Presidential Task Force on Media Security Executive Director Undersecretary Joel Egco said on Sunday.

Dinoy — a member of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer (LGBTQ) community — worked for a local publication and a broadcast station.

He was a former correspondent of the Philippine Daily Inquirer.

He was gunned down in his apartment in Bansalan, Davao del Sur on October 30, at around 6 p.m.

 “Even if the motive seems to be a personal matter,  the Task Force will see to it that justice will be served to those responsible for Dinoy’s death,” Egco said in a statement.

According to Mindanao Independent Press Council President Edith Caduaya, colleague of Dinoy, the slain reporter had an altercation with a person prior to the killing.

He was also pushed to run for vice mayor in Bansalan.

The government condoled with the bereaved family of Dinoy.

“If anyone of you feel threatened in any way, the Task Force is here to help 24/7. We are just a phone call away and we will provide you with immediate security and protection if you feel you are in any danger,” Egco said.

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