News update Contract row possible motive behind journalist's murder

MANILA, Philippines – A dispute over a public works contract is one of the possible motives being eyed by investigators in the case of the killing of a retired broadcaster in Kalinga over the weekend.

Chief Superintendent Villamor Bumanglag, Cordillera regional director, said that based on their initial investigation, the victim, Jose Daguio, 75, former broadcaster of DZRK Radyo ng Bayan who retired in 1986, was involved in a public works project of the Tuga waterworks system in Tuga,, Kalinga. Tabuk City

The report also showed that the victim had a misunderstanding with a certain Barangay Kagawad Elorde Marcelino, who reportedly realigned Daguio's project into deep well project.

Bumanglag said investigators are also looking into land dispute and reprisal by criminal elements as possible leads in the case.

Daguio, 75, also worked part-time with DZRH in 2005 and became a contributor in a local publication in 2008, was shot at close range with a 12-gauge shotgun inside his house in Brgy. Tuga, Tabuk City, last Saturday night.

The police official said Daguio was not connected with any recognized publication or media outfit when he was slain. - By Dennis Carcamo