MANILA, Philippines — A reporter of the government-run Radyo ng Bayan was killed in an ambush in Bongao, Tawi-Tawi, around 8 a.m. today (June 25).

Based on reports received by the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP), Vicente Sumalpong, a reporter of Radyo ng Bayan, was killed on the spot. Two others were wounded: Vema Antham, RnB reporter, and Ruelan Hope Borja, RnB staff.

The three were on board a motorcycle and were leaving the Sea Orchid Housing Project in Bongao after picking up Antham when fired at by unidentified gunmen. Sumalpong sustained five gunshot wounds and died immediately.

Earlier, Sumalpong and Antham reportedly asked Radyo ng Bayan management that they be transferred from Tawi-Tawi because of fears for their safety.

Sumalpong is the fourth journalist killed this year and the 53rd under the admnistration of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. (NUJP)