By Perla Lena
ILOILO CITY โ Aklan Governor Jose Enrique โJoenโ Miraflores has called for a speedy and thorough investigation into the killing of former Kalibo mayor and veteran journalist Juan โJohnnyโ Dayang, describing his death as โdeeply disturbing.โ
Miraflores also assured Dayangโs family and the public that the provincial government is closely coordinating with law enforcement authorities to ensure that those behind the killing are held accountable.
โWe demand a swift and thorough investigation to bring those responsible to justice. No stone will be left unturned in our pursuit of accountability,โ the governor said in a statement posted on his Facebook page on Wednesday.
He said Dayang was โmore than a veteran journalist; he was a pillar of our community, a respected leader, and a dedicated public servant.โ
Dayang, 89, was gunned down inside his home in Barangay Andagao, Kalibo on Tuesday evening by still unidentified assailants. He was rushed to the Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital but was declared dead on arrival.
Miraflores paid tribute to Dayang, describing him as โmore than a veteran journalist,โ but also a โpillar of our community, a respected leader, and a dedicated public servant.โ
Dayangโs contributions to numerous media organizations speak volumes of his unwavering commitment and passion. At the same time, his service as mayor of Kalibo reflected his dedication to the betterment of Aklan, he said.
โThe senseless and brutal manner of his passing deeply grieves not only his family and friends but the entire province of Aklan and the nation. The loss of Mr. Dayang is immeasurable,โ the governor said.
Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Jack Wanky, director of the Police Regional Office (PRO) 6 (Western Visayas), is currently in Aklan to spearhead the in-depth and swift investigation of the case.
โRest assured that PRO-6 is pursuing an airtight investigation and shall explore all available legal means to identify and bring the suspect(s) to court and that justice be served to the victim,โ he said in a statement released by the Regional Public Information Office. (PNA)
