Veteran journalist Juan Dayang shot dead in his residence

Juan “Johnny” Dayang, a veteran journalist and longtime president of the Publishers Association of the Philippines Inc. (PAPI), was shot dead in his apartment at Kalibo, Aklan on April 29 according Aklan Police Provincial Office’s Spokesperson, Captain Aubrey Ayon. 

Upon initial investigation, the 89-year-old journalist was watching television inside his residence when he was shot by an unidentified male suspect around 8 pm.

The suspect disembarked from the motorcycle and fired three shots at seven meters far from the victim outside the perimeter fence of his residence.

According to reports, Dayang received two shots in the back and was unresponsive while being brought to the hospital. 

Dayang was brought to Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital (DRSTMH), yet was declared dead on arrival. 

Juan Dayang writes a weekly column in news outlets Tempo and Balita, published by the Manila Bulletin Publishing Corp. 

Dayang also authored a book, Echoes from the Woodwork, a compilation of columns providing insights into the most significant events in the country for two decades.

He is a veteran newspaperman who has served as the publisher of the Philippine Graphic Magazine and Headline Manila Daily Newspaper.

He also served as President of the Manila Overseas Press Club, advocating for the development of community journalism. 

He has also offered service as a UNESCO commissioner, Red Cross governor, National Book Development Board governor, and a board member of the Fortune Insurance Company of the ALC Group of Companies.  

The Scene Of The Crime Operative - Aklan and the Philippine National Police are currently leading the investigation to identify those involved.