He spoke and was gunned down
Whenever I open the doors to our office in Dumaguete City, I would rush to our old-school radio and switch the dial to the city's most popular station. The music bed is too familiar, I would sometimes sing to the opening song of the program. As the anchor spoke, I would pay close attention to the issue of the day. If I found it enticing, I would send the anchor a text message as I knew him personally.
I'm still in Cebu and I have to wait for another two weeks before I could go to Dumaguete City. Yet, the morning routines will be different. It will be silenced. As the man who sat on the morning show just spoke and has been gunned down.
We all knew him as Edmund Sestoso, a man who was very visible. He made every interaction with his listeners as if they were his friends. On certain days when he had time, he would go on field with other reporters and bring in the news to his radio station. That was like working two jobs in one, but he enjoyed the company of others. At times we would laugh at him and his stature, but he took it in jest which made the atmosphere a little bit lighter.
Everyone thought that journalists are safe from harm, but look at his tragedy. Somebody might have been irked at what he has been talking about over the radio which prompted the mastermind to shut him up. All the media in Dumaguete are now united to fight for justice for his untimely death.
As for me, it is more than just a death for this radio commentator. It is a reflection of what Philippine society is to the Fourth Estate. Being part of a media is a privilege and a responsibility at the same time. We made our vow to expose the truth behind government and other entities to the public. It is our duty to bring out what we see without sugarcoating it. Why can't the state protect us and keep us safe? Although there are members of the media who abuse this power, there are laws that can be used against us. Why take lives?
This isn't the first time a radio commentator was gunned down. In the previous years and in different places, there have been a lot. Shall we wait for more? Journalists are humans too who also have rights. The job of one is risky but at the same time fulfilling. However, the logic is simple. If you don't want media attention, then do everything right and without question. For sure you will be spared from all the bashing.
His killing is a symbol of his inhumane society that we are in. No matter how we condemn the act, the perpetrator is laughing and hiding somewhere. They must not win. They never will. By the power of our pen and voice, we will continue to expose the truth.