CHR to conduct own probe into shooting of photojournalist, kin

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) said Monday that it would conduct its own investigation into the shooting of photojournalist Joshua Abiad and his family in Quezon City on June 29.

CHR issued the statement in light of the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) ruling out Abiad's profession as a photographer for Remate Online as the reason for the gun attack.

The Commission also noted the alleged death threats against fact-checking media organization VERA Files.

“In line with our mandate to protect and promote the right to life, liberty, and security of all individuals, and uphold press freedom, the CHR-National Capital Region is also doing its parallel and independent probe to aid in uncovering the truth on the aforementioned incidents,” CHR said.

It also urged authorities to provide adequate protection to both the Abiad family and VERA Files employees.

“CHR continues to reiterate that acts of violence and intimidation against media professionals and news outlets contribute to impunity and the erosion of press freedom, which negatively impacts the foundations of our democracy and the integrity of our society. May these incidents serve as a reminder to the government to continue to take proactive measures that will ensure the welfare and safety of media practitioners and all individuals to prevent further violence and create a safe and secure environment for all,” it added.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) said Monday that authorities had identified five persons of interest in the Abiad shooting.

The PNP also created a special investigation task group (SITG) to probe the shooting incident as PNP Chief Police General Benjamin Acorda Jr. ordered expediting the investigation and identification of the perpetrators. — DVM, GMA Integrated News