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Alert

Probable suspects in murder of radio journalist identified

(CMFR/IFEX) - A radio broadcaster in General Santos City, southern Philippines, was killed by unknown assailants on 17 June 2004 at around 3:15 p.m. (local time). He was the second journalist to be killed in the Philippines this year.

Ely Binoya, station manager of Radyo Natin (Our Radio), was riding on a motorcycle on his way home to Malungon town, in South Cotabato, when he was shot by two unidentified gunmen who were also on a motorcycle in Crossing Upper Labay, according to Jose Torres of ABS-CBN News online.

The Manila-based newspaper "Today" reported that, according to police, Binoya died on the spot due to multiple gunshot wounds in different parts of his body.

Torres said the motive for the killing is still unknown. However, he added that Binoya was known as a hard-hitting commentator who often criticised politicians.

The "Manila Bulletin," another Manila-based newspaper, reported that Superintendent Willie Dangane, General Santos City police chief, said three people have been tagged as probable suspects.

Dangane named a certain Kolot Padernilla, a nephew of Mayor Teodorico Padernilla of Malungon, Sarangani, Bobot Toreta, and another person known only as Balong. The three were named in a complaint filed by Binoya for an alleged assault on 7 June.

CMFR is investigating the case.