CAPIZ — Roxas City Mayor Ronnie Dadivas has strongly condemned the attempted assassination of veteran radio broadcaster Jay Lavapiez, popularly known as “Papang Jay,” and ordered a swift and impartial investigation into the incident.
In a statement issued on June 22, Dadivas described the attack as not only an assault on an individual but also a direct attack on press freedom and democratic values.
“We strongly condemn the assassination attempt and threats to the life and safety of Jay Lavapiez, known as ‘Papang Jay,’ as well as all acts of intimidation, harassment, and violence directed against journalists and media practitioners. Such reprehensible acts are not only attacks against individuals but also constitute a direct assault on the fundamental freedoms of speech, expression, and the press—rights that are essential pillars of a democratic society,” the mayor said.
Lavapiez survived the attack after unidentified gunmen riding a motorcycle opened fire on his vehicle at around 5 a.m. Monday while he was on his way from his home to the radio station.
The broadcaster said he noticed two suspicious men near a waiting shed in Barangay Cagay and sensed danger as he approached the area.
“As I drove closer, I saw one of the assailants draw a firearm,” Lavapiez recalled.
He immediately swerved his vehicle toward a nearby gutter to evade the gunfire.
“I knew that if I didn’t act fast, they could inflict much more harm once they realized I was still alive,” he said.
Lavapiez escaped the attack unharmed, although he said the incident left him shaken. He noted that the suspects, believed to be in their 40s or 50s, had not yet fully mounted their motorcycle when the shooting began, giving him enough time to react.
Following the incident, Dadivas directed Roxas City Chief of Police Lt. Col. Rogelio L. Tomagtang Jr. to conduct a thorough, impartial, and expeditious investigation to identify the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
The mayor also called on law enforcement agencies and other government institutions to provide adequate protection to journalists who continue to perform their duties despite the risks they face.
“Journalists play a vital role in informing the public, promoting transparency, and holding institutions accountable. Any attempt to silence them through violence, threats, or fear undermines the public’s right to information and weakens the democratic process,” Dadivas said.
“We stand in solidarity with Jay Lavapiez and all members of the media community in defending press freedom and upholding the constitutional right of every citizen to freely express opinions and seek the truth without fear of reprisal,” he added.
The city government reiterated its commitment to fostering a safe environment for journalists and vowed to support measures that uphold press freedom and prevent similar incidents in the future./PN
