By Chantal Jade V. Tolores
By any measure, the assassination of veteran journalist and former Kalibo mayor Juan “Johnny” Dayang on April 29, 2025, is more than a heinous crime—it is a direct assault on press freedom, democratic values, and the sanctity of truth in the Philippines.
At 89, Dayang was not just a respected media figure, he was a living institution—chair emeritus of the Publishers Association of the Philippines Inc. (PAPI), former president of the Manila Overseas Press Club, founder of the Aklan Press Club, and a lifelong advocate for ethical journalism and civic engagement.
He was gunned down in his own home while watching television by a masked assailant firing through his window is a chilling reminder of the dangers journalists face in this country. The brazenness of the attack—executed by a lone gunman who fled on a motorcycle—stresses the impunity that emboldens such acts.
His assassination has shaken both the local media community and the broader public who have come to admire his fearless journalism and decades-long public service.
Dayang’s murder is not an isolated incident. He is the sixth journalist killed since President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. took office in June 2022.
This pattern of violence against media practitioners reflects a broader climate of hostility towards the press, where journalists are targeted for exposing corruption, abuse of power, and social injustices.
The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) condemned Dayang’s killing as
“especially contemptible, considering that he was shot at his own home.” The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has launched an independent investigation, emphasizing the need for a safer environment for all media workers.
Yet, despite these condemnations, the cycle of violence persists.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) also condemned the incident, referring to it as a “senseless killing,” and vowed to investigate, but history has shown that justice in cases like this moves slowly, if at all.
What makes Dayang’s murder even more troubling is the deafening silence from many of our national leaders—those who should be the first to condemn such acts and ensure swift justice. The government’s response has been largely reactive, with promises of investigations that rarely lead to convictions.
In many parts of the Philippines, journalists walk a fine line between public service and personal risk.
Their silence reflects a dangerous tolerance for violence against dissent and truth-telling. Suppose the state cannot guarantee the safety of an esteemed journalist and public servant like Johnny Dayang. What hope is left for young, independent journalists in the provinces?
For journalists working in rural provinces where political dynasties dominate and press freedom is often treated like a luxury—Dayang symbolized resilience.
Dayang’s death is deeply disturbing and should be a wake-up call to take concrete steps to protect journalists and uphold press freedom. This includes implementing comprehensive measures to prevent attacks and ensuring swift, urgent, and impartial investigations. Above all, holding perpetrators accountable regardless of their status or affiliations.
Johnny Dayang’s death must not be in vain. It must become a turning point to say, “enough.” Enough of the killings. Enough of the silence. Enough of the fear. If we let this crime fade from the headlines without justice, we are endorsing a future where truth-telling becomes a martyr’s calling, and democracy dies behind a shroud of fear.
As we mourn his loss, we must honor his legacy by continuing the fight for truth, accountability, and justice.
In the words of Dayang himself, “Journalism is not just a profession; it’s a public trust.” Let us not betray that trust by allowing his death to be another unsolved journalist murder.
