UNESCO chief deplores killing of reporter in the Philippines

The head of the United Nations agency tasked with upholding press freedom today lamented the death of a Filipino journalist shot in the crossfire of a standoff between police and a suspected criminal gang.

Jojo Trajano was killed covering the raid in Taytay Town, near Manila, for the local Remate newspaper on 3 June, according to the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

“Mr. Trajano died in the line of duty, working to satisfy people’s need and right to be informed,” said UNESCO Director-General Koïchiro Matsuura, in a statement deploring the death.

“No effort must be spared to ensure the safety of media workers and provide them with training to help them optimize their security while facing the dangers of their profession,” added Mr. Matsuura.