Family Challenges Kalibo Police Case Cleared Claims
ILOILO CITY – The family of slain veteran journalist Juan “Johnny” Dayang vehemently rejects the statement that his April 29 murder case in Kalibo town, Aklan province is already a cleared case. They argue that declaring the case closed without arrests or full transparency disrespects Dayang’s memory and sacrifices.
“Johnny Dayang stood for truth, public service, and press freedom. His assassination is not just a family tragedy – it is a national concern,” the family said in a statement released on June 6. “To label his case ‘cleared’ without arrests, without full disclosure, and without justice is a grave disservice to his life and legacy.”
Concerns Over Investigation Depth
The Dayang family criticized the early declaration from Kalibo police chief Major Frensy Andrade, calling it an “inaccurate, premature, and deeply irresponsible” assessment shared during a recent Aklan Provincial Board session. They emphasized that the case remains unsolved and investigations seem superficial.
No arrests have been made by the Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) assigned to the case under Police Col. Arnel Ramos of the Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO). The family also pointed out that the alleged mastermind behind the killing has not been identified or pursued.
Unidentified Suspects and Ongoing Search
The family expressed alarm that multiple suspects are still unidentified. To date, only Kim Wency “BB Boy” Bayang Antonio from Cavite has been named as a suspect. Antonio remains at large and was recently implicated in a murder case filed by the Department of Justice (DOJ).
“We demand clarity, not choreography,” the family asserted. They call on the public, media, and government officials to unite in ensuring justice is neither denied nor delayed.
Calls for Justice and Accountability
The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) has assured the public that justice will be served for Dayang. Notably, Dayang once served as officer-in-charge mayor of Kalibo following the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution, highlighting his dedication to public service.
The family’s plea resonates beyond personal grief. It points to broader issues on press freedom and the safety of journalists in the country. They insist that the investigation must go beyond surface details and that justice for their loved one must not be compromised.
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