By Gabriela Baron
Broadcast commentator Percival Mabasa, better known as Percy Lapid, was shot dead in Las Piñas Monday night, Oct. 3, according to the Philippine National Police (PNP).
Mabasa was gunned down by two unidentified suspects past 8:00 p.m. along Aria Street, Barangay Talon Dos.
“Looking on all possibilities, we are conducting coordination with the officers of village and a Special Investigation Task Force was also created by Las Piñas City Station,” National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) Director Jonnel Estomo said.
“The NCRPO has also made a step to create a Special Investigation Task Group,” he added.
Estomo assured a thorough investigation is underway.
“NCRPO acknowledges the indispensable part of our media friends in fair, truthful, and timely dissemination of information to multitudes of audience. We will update the public in any smallest detail as to the development of the investigation,” Estomo said.
Mabasa’s family also released a statement, condemning his death.
“We are deeply saddened and angered by the brutal and brazen killing of fearless broadcaster, father and husband, brother, and friend, Percy Lapid,” Mabasa’s brother, also a veteran journalist, Roy, said in a statement.
“We strongly condemn this deplorable crime; it was committed not only against Percy, his family, and his professional, but against our country, his beloved Philippines, and the truth,” he added.
Roy remembered Percy as someone who “was beloved by many and highly respected by peers, fans, and foes alike.”
“His bold and sharp commentaries cut through the barrage of fake news over the air waves and on social media,” he said.
“We demand that his cowardly assassins be brought to justice.”
Prior to his death, Mabasa hosted a radio news commentary program on DWBL 1242 called Lapid Fire. –ag
