Jay Lavapiez, station manager and anchorman at Baskog Radyo in Roxas City, survived an assassination attempt on June 22, 2026, when gunmen opened fire on his vehicle.
Details of the Attack
I can’t think of any reason but job-related because I am facing cases. I know the individuals who filed it, who are going against us.
Jay Lavapiez, Radio Broadcaster
- Attack occurred around 5:40 a.m. as Lavapiez was en route to his station.
- Witnesses reported seeing two men waiting near the highway prior to the shooting.
- Lavapiez evaded the attack by driving into a roadside gutter.
Police confirmed that the suspects, who chased Lavapiez on a motorcycle, fired four shots from a 9mm handgun at the driver's side. Fortunately, Lavapiez was unharmed.
BGen. Randulf Tuaño, acting director of the Police Regional Office 6, announced the formation of a special investigation team to expedite inquiries into the attack. This team will include members from various police units to ensure a thorough investigation.
Tuaño emphasized that police would determine if the shooting was work-related and whether there were prior threats against Lavapiez or his family.
Wider Implications for Press Freedom
The incident has raised alarms within the local media community and drew condemnation from the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS). They highlighted the urgent need for protections for journalists.
PTFoMS stated, "We condemn all acts of violence and intimidation against journalists and assert that such actions have no place in a democratic society."
Roxas City Mayor Ronnie Dadivas also condemned the attack, calling it an assault on essential freedoms of speech and expression. He reiterated the vital role of journalists in promoting transparency and accountability.
The attack on Lavapiez is part of a troubling trend in the Philippines, where journalists often face threats and violence. It underscores the ongoing challenges for media professionals in the country.