A Catholic-run broadcasting network demanded a swift investigation after one of its longtime radio technicians was fatally shot in Maguindanao del Norte.
The Notre Dame Broadcasting Corp. condemned Tuesday’s killing of Dennis Pido and urged authorities to conduct a prompt, impartial and thorough investigation to bring those responsible to justice.
“Violence has no place in a civilized and democratic society, not even in BARMM,” said Oblate Father Rockmoore Saniel, the network’s chief executive officer, in a statement released after the attack.
“We urge the authorities to pursue every available lead, identify all those responsible, and ensure that they are held fully accountable under the law,” he said.
The network also appealed to anyone with information to cooperate with investigators, saying justice depends on truth, accountability and the community’s commitment to uphold the rule of law.
Pido, 57, was declared dead on arrival at a hospital after unidentified gunmen riding a motorcycle shot him Tuesday afternoon in Sultan Kudarat town’s Barangay Limbo, according to NDBC News.
An initial police report said the attack occurred around 4 p.m. while Pido was on his way to the station for his work shift. He sustained three gunshot wounds to the chest.
A resident of North Manuangan, Pigcawayan, North Cotabato, Pido had served the station for many years as a radio technician.
Saniel described Pido as a dedicated employee whose quiet work behind every broadcast helped sustain the station’s mission of informing and serving the public.
“As we grieve, we remember Dennis not only as a valued employee but as a beloved colleague and friend whose dedication and commitment touched many lives,” he said.
DXMS/DXOL and the entire NDBC family extended condolences to Pido’s relatives and pledged to stand with them as they seek justice.
Based in Cotabato City, the radio station is operated by the Oblates of Mary Immaculate and is recognized for pioneering peace and conflict-sensitive broadcast journalism in Central Mindanao.
