Murder of Veteran Journalist in Kalibo, Aklan Confirmed by PNP
The Philippine National Police (PNP) hauled suspects into custody on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, vowing to deliver justice for the cold-blooded murder of renowned journalist Juan "Johnny" Dayang in Kalibo, Aklan.
In a statement, PNP Chief General Rommel Marbil confirmed Dayang's death on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, in his own home in Kalibo, Aklan. The crime went unsolved at the time of reporting.
"The PNP mourns the death of Mr. Dayang – a distinguished figure in the press, an unwavering defender of Philippine journalism, and former president of the Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (Papi) – whose tireless efforts left an indelible mark on our nation's media.," Marbil said.
"Johnny Dayang was not only a distinguished journalist but a pillar of our media. To kill a man of such stature, in the sanctity of his own home, is a grievous assault on human dignity and a devastating blow to the very principles of press freedom that he championed. The Philippine National Police is unwavering in our pursuit of justice for Mr. Dayang."
Marbil rallied PNP regional units and investigative teams to expedite their investigations into the incident. According to reports, the investigations will include scrutiny of closed-circuit television footage from the area and pursuing potential leads.
At a press conference, the PNP spokesperson, Brigadier General Jean Fajardo, stated that investigators have collected footage from various CCTV cameras in the area for further analysis. Fajardo refused to share additional details about the leads being pursued, citing the sensitive nature of the ongoing investigation.
Potential motives for the murder include Dayang's journalist work, political connections, and personal disputes. Dayang served as a publisher (Graphic magazine) and president emeritus of the Publishers Association of the Philippines[1][3], prompting concern over media-related threats. Authorities are also reviewing whether Dayang's alleged support for political candidates in the midterm elections played a role[3]. Additionally, investigators are considering recent reports of suspicious individuals circling Dayang's home preceding the attack[3][5].
As of the latest updates, no suspects have been publicly identified, and no group has claimed responsibility for the murder. The PNP has emphasized a thorough investigation with no stone left unturned.
- The Philippine National Police (PNP) is unwavering in their pursuit of justice for the cold-blooded murder of renowned journalist Johnny Dayang, a distinguished figure in Philippine journalism, who was murdered in his own home in Kalibon, Aklan.
- In a press conference, the PNP spokesperson, Brigadier General Jean Fajardo, stated that investigators have collected footage from various CCTV cameras in the area for further analysis, and are pursuing potential leads in the case, which may include Dayang's journalism work, political connections, and personal disputes.
- The PNP Chief, General Rommel Marbil, rallied regional units and investigative teams to expedite their investigations into the incident, noted the sensitivity of the ongoing investigation, and emphasized that no stone will be left unturned in their search for justice.
- Investigators are also reviewing whether Dayang's alleged support for political candidates in the midterm elections played a role in his murder, as well as considering recent reports of suspicious individuals circling Dayang's home preceding the attack.
- As of the latest updates, no suspects have been publicly identified, and no group has claimed responsibility for the murder, but the PNP remains committed to delivering justice for Johnny Dayang, whose tireless efforts left an indelible mark on the nation's media landscape.
