Joy Mortel

Despite a tumultuous political culture plagued by corruption, social unrest, poverty, and ethnic conflict, the Philippines steadfastly adheres to a tradition of free expression that makes it one of the most open societies in Asia. The constitution guarantees press freedom, and few government regulations control the print or broadcast media. The Philippine press proved stronger than ever in 2001.

New York, June 7, 2001 - The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) condemns the bomb attack yesterday on DYHB Radio Station in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, and calls for a prompt and thorough investigation into the incident.

DYHB is known for its hard-hitting reports on local crime and drug syndicates, according to the Manila-based Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility (CMFR). It has also recently broadcast reports on the military's battle against Abu Sayyaf , an Islamic separatist group that is currently holding 13 Filipino and American hostages. The radio station is part of the Radio Mindanao Network (RMN), which has aired interviews in recent days with Abu Sabaya, the spokesman for the group.