Journalist shot dead in southern Philippines

A gunman shot and killed radio journalist as he hosted a singing contest before shocked spectators in the southern Philippines, police said today.

Desidario Camangyan of Sunshine FM radio died from a gunshot wound to the head last night inside the gymnasium of Davao Oriental province's Manay township, according to officers.

Mr Camangyan, 52, was sitting on stage when the attacker shot him from behind.

The gunman escaped on foot. Police were trying to determine the motive, including if the attack was related to Mr Camangyan's work as a broadcaster.

The Philippines prides itself on having among the freest media in south-east Asia, but it also is among the world's most dangerous places for journalists.

In the world's deadliest single assault on media workers, at least 30 reporters and their staff were among 57 people massacred November 30 in the southern Philippines.

The victims were in a vehicle convoy targeted in political violence before the national election in May.

Prior to that attack, 75 media workers had been killed in the country since 2001, according to the International Federation of Journalists.