Kalibo: A PHP500,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest of the suspect in the killing of former Kalibo mayor and journalist Juan 'Johnny' Dayang, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said Thursday. The announcement comes as authorities intensify efforts to solve the case of the veteran journalist, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to prioritize press safety and protection.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Police Regional Office 6 (Western Visayas) has identified a male suspect in the killing of Dayang, which occurred on April 29. Initial investigations revealed that the suspect has a prior criminal record and was previously arrested in May 2021 during an illegal drug buy-bust operation in Pasig City. Authorities stated that the case against the suspect is ready for filing, with charges anticipated in connection to the murder.
In a bid to support ongoing police operations, both the provincial government of Aklan and the local government unit (LGU) of Kalibo have jointly pledged a PHP500,000 reward for credible information leading to the suspect's apprehension.
PNP Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil emphasized the PNP's dedication to resolving the case, assuring the public of relentless efforts to capture Dayang's killer. "His identity has been confirmed, and we are exhausting all means to bring him to justice," Marbil stated, expressing gratitude to Aklan's provincial government and LGU Kalibo for their supportive role in expediting the suspect's capture. He highlighted the broader significance of the case as a matter of upholding press freedom and protecting truth-seekers.
Moreover, Marbil reiterated the PNP's active coordination with the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) and other investigative bodies to ensure swift and decisive justice. He appealed to the public for continued assistance in the investigation.
Dayang, aged 89, was a respected figure in Philippine journalism and had served as President Emeritus of the Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PAPI). As the investigation unfolds, the PNP remains committed to its mandate of protecting Filipino citizens, especially those in the media sector dedicated to truth and accountability.