Marbil mobilizes probe teams to solve Johnny Dayang murder

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has mobilized investigative teams to help expedite the investigation into the brazen killing of 89-year old veteran journalist Johnny Dayang who was shot dead right inside his house in Kalibo, Aklan.

PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil said police investigators are also working with other investigative bodies to immediately identify and arrest the perpetrators of the attack.

“We strongly condemn this senseless and cowardly act. Mr. Juan ‘Johnny’ Dayang was not only a respected journalist but a cornerstone of Philippine media. To harm a man of his age and stature, in the safety of his own home, is both an affront to human decency and an attack on the very principles of press freedom he upheld throughout his life,” said Marbil.

“The Philippine National Police will not rest until those responsible are brought to justice,” he added.

Dayang was shot by an unidentified gunman inside his residence in Kalibo, Aklan, around 8 p.m. on Tuesday, April 29.

He was taken to the Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital but was declared dead on arrival.

“We have mobilized our regional units and investigative teams, including the PNP Media Vanguards, to ensure that justice is delivered without delay,” said Marbil.

“The Media Vanguards, composed of PNP officers specially trained to engage and support media practitioners, are also tasked to help strengthen our protection mechanisms for journalists across the country,” he added.

Marbil also urged anyone with information relevant to the case to come forward and assist authorities in the ongoing investigation.