Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Martin Andanar has ordered the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) to conduct a special investigation into the recent shooting of Davao del Norte-based journalist Pat Lucero Pacquiao.

“We hope for Mr. Pacquiao’s quick recovery and the speedy resolution of the incident. As co-chair of the Presidential Task Force on Media Security, I have ordered a special investigation to build a solid case, and eventually attain justice for Mr. Pacquiao,” Andanar said Saturday.

“We will closely monitor this development, and we are prepared to give necessary legal assistance,” he added.

On Friday morning, an unidentified man shot and wounded the broadcaster as he was heading home after his morning program at a local radio. Pacquiao survived the ambush.

In his statement, Andanar said the PCOO condemns any act that threatens the well-being of media practitioners simply for doing their job of informing the public.

“Our office is dedicated to creating an environment that fosters press freedom and where the media can work free of harm,” he added.

He also urged local authorities, to closely monitor the case and “to quickly look for the suspects who committed the crime.”

Andanar assured that the PTFoMS “will ensure the protection of the life, liberty, and security of all media workers in the Philippines.” (PNA)