Family of slain journalist fear for lives, skip visit to tomb

DIGOS CITY, Philippines—The family of slain journalist Nestor Bedolido stayed home and did not visit his tomb on All Saints’ Day or All Souls Day for fear of their personal safety.

Marxlen Bedolido, the slain journalist’s son, told the Inquirer Wednesday that they wanted to visit his father’s tomb but decided against it as the alleged masterminds of his murder remained scot-free.

“We wanted to be with him on this rare occasion because we really missed him but we cannot do anything but prioritize our security because the suspects are free,” Marxlen said.

He said instead of going to the cemetery, they just stayed inside their safehouse, lighted candles there and offered prayers.

“Maybe we could finally visit his tomb when the suspects are in jail already,” Marxlen said.

Bedolido, a consultant for the weekly Kastigador, was shot dead here on June 19 last year by one of two motorcycle-riding men.

A few months later, Voltaire Mirafuentes surrendered to the police’s Criminal Detection and Investigation Group and admitted the murder. He implicated Davao del Sur Gov. Douglas Cagas and Matanao Mayor Vicente Fernandez in the Bedolido murder case and has since been placed under the government’s witness protection program.

Both officials denied involvement in the journalist’s murder.

The Bedolido family has repeatedly urged the Department of Justice to file murder charges against Cagas and Fernandez based on Mirafuentes’ confession.

Marxlen said the filing of the charges could hasten the issuance of warrants for the arrest of the alleged masterminds.

In September, the DOJ conducted preliminary hearings on Bedolido’s murder but has yet to come up with a resolution.

Cagas had said he hoped the preliminary investigation would clear him of any involvement in the death of journalist.

“I have long wanted this case resolved. I am also a victim here of undue trial,” he said.