Andanar probes shooting of Tagum broadcaster

MANILA, Philippines — Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar has ordered an investigation on the shooting of broadcaster and provincial public information officer Pat Lucero Pacquiao in Tagum City, Davao del Norte, on Oct. 11.

Andanar, cochair of the Presidential Task Force on Media Security, condemned the attack on Pacquiao, who was ambushed after leaving the radio station where he worked.

Pacquiao had just arrived at a house he was selling when  unidentified gunmen attacked him. He was able to drive his vehicle away but was still hit.

“The PCOO (Presidential Communications Operations Office) condemns any act that threatens the well-being of media practitioners simply for doing their job of informing the public. Our office is dedicated to creating an environment that fosters press freedom and where the media can work free from harm,” Andanar said. —Leila B. Salaverria