Police now say they are uncertain about the cause of radio commentator Randy T. Makiputin's injuries, with two eyewitnesses alleging the broadcaster crashed his motorcycle.
(IFJ/IFEX) – December 2, 2010 – The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has new information regarding a reported shooting of radio commentator Randy T. Makiputin in Valencia City in the country’s south on November 26, 2010. New information reveals that the alleged shooting did not occur. In fact, Makiputin’s injuries were reportedly sustained in a motorcycle accident.
Valencia City Police investigating the incident earlier confirmed Makiputin’s claims that he had been shot by unidentified men on motorcycles. Police now say they are uncertain about the cause of his injuries, with two eyewitnesses – aged 13 and 16 – making sworn statements alleging the broadcaster crashed his motorcycle, and pointed a gun at them after the accident. They also claim that he was intoxicated at the time.
Makiputin, a broadcaster with Radyo Abante in Maramag town, Bukidnon province, checked out of hospital on November 28 and has been unavailable for comment since.