Police Intensify Probe Into Slay of Veteran Journalist Johnny Dayang

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has ramped up its investigation into the fatal shooting of former Kalibo Mayor and veteran journalist Juan “Johnny” Dayang, who was gunned down inside his residence in Barangay Andagao one evening last week.

To expedite the case, a Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) has been established, composed of officers from the Aklan Provincial Police Office, the Kalibo Municipal Police Station, and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG). Investigators are pursuing several leads, including possible motives linked to Dayang’s personal affairs, political history, and work as a journalist.

Initial reports indicate that Dayang was attacked by an unidentified gunman at around 9:00 PM. He was rushed to Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital but was declared dead on arrival. Forensic investigators recovered spent shell casings at the scene, and authorities are currently reviewing surveillance footage from nearby areas to identify the perpetrator.

Police have also begun interviewing family members, neighbors, and colleagues to gather additional information that may assist in the investigation. They are also looking into any prior threats Dayang may have received.

The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS), which strongly condemned the killing, is coordinating with law enforcement agencies to support efforts in resolving the case. Dayang, who served as president emeritus of the Publishers Association of the Philippines, was widely regarded as a pillar of Philippine journalism and a respected public servant.

As of this writing, no arrests have been made. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities appealing to the public for any information that may lead to the identification and capture of the suspects.