By the Publisher’s Association of the Philippines
KALIBO, Aklan – Juan P. Dayang, 89, chairman emeritus of the Publishers Association of the Philippines Inc. (PAPI) and a prominent figure in Philippine journalism, was shot dead in his home at Casa Dayang in Villa Salvacion here at around 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 29, 2025.
Dayang, a highly respected figure in the media industry, was reportedly watching television when an unidentified gunman, wearing a bonnet, fired three shots from outside his residence.
He sustained a fatal neck wound and two gunshot wounds at the back. He was declared dead on arrival at the Dr. Rafael S. Tumbocon Memorial Hospital at 8:33 pm.
Dayang’s long and distinguished career spanned decades. He served as president of PAPI for over 20 years, leaving an indelible mark on the organization and the Philippine publishing landscape.
His contributions extended beyond PAPI; he was also president of the Manila Overseas Press Club, a former director of the National Press Club, and the founding president of the Federation of Provincial Press Clubs of the Philippines. At the time of his death, Dayang held the position of Secretary of the Catholic Mass Media Awards.
His commitment to public service led him to serve as mayor of his Kalibo hometown, the provincial capital of Aklan, during the administration of the late President Corazon Aquino.
Dayang’s caretaker, Marjorie Yap, said that around 9 a.m. on Tuesday, two unidentified men wearing bonnets were seen on a motorcycle near Dayang’s residence, seemingly observing the house, suggesting that the attack was premeditated.
Police are currently investigating the incident and reviewing CCTV footages from the area to identify the suspects, who fled the scene on a motorcycle. The motive behind the murder remains unclear currently, and authorities are pursuing all possible leads.
The death of Dayang represents a significant loss to the Philippine media and political landscape. His legacy of leadership, dedication to journalism, and public service will be remembered for generations to come. The nation mourns the passing of this remarkable individual.
In a subsequent telephone interview, PAPI President Nelson S. Santos declared: “We strongly condemn this killing, and we are calling for justice. HINDI niya deserved ang cruel and senseless end.”
Santos said PAPI earnestly urges the Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PFTOMS) and its partner authorities to promptly investigate the Dayang case, identify the killers and the brains behind the murder, and bring them to justice
“We join the entire media community in demanding justice for our Chairman Emeritus and his family. We also extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones,” Santos stressed.
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