Law enforcement authorities in Misamis Occidental arrested two suspects in the murder of broadcaster Juan ‘DJ Johnny Walker’ Jumalon, the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) announced over the weekend, indicating an important breakthrough in the case.
Cousins Boboy Sagaray Bongcaweli and Renante Saja Bongcaweli, both 39-year-olds, were apprehended during police operations in Barangay Poblacion, Sapang Dalaga, Misamis Occidental last Friday, March 15.
Jumalon was fatally shot on Nov. 5, 2023 while conducting a live broadcast at his residence. Boboy was identified as the individual who pointed a gun at Jumalon’s radio station assistant, while Renante was recognized as the driver of the getaway motorcycle used in the crime.
Calamba Executive Judge Michael Lotao Ajoc of Regional Trial Court Branch 36 issued the arrest warrants, highlighting the charges of murder and theft against the apprehended individuals. Both suspects are currently held without bail.
In a statement released Saturday, March 16, PTFoMS executive director Paul Gutierrez said this development underscored the commitment of the task force in addressing violence against members of the press.
The PTFoMS, in coordination with law enforcement agencies, continues to pursue leads to locate the remaining suspect, Julito Mangumpit, the alleged gunman in Jumalon’s murder. The government offered a reward of P3.7 million for information leading to the arrest of the suspects.
Efforts to apprehend Mangumpit include the distribution of 50,000 wanted flyers produced with the assistance of the APO Production Unit, Inc. The resolution of this case remains a top priority for the government, according to PTFoMS.