This photo taken on April 19, 2024 shows photos of slain Philippine environmental activist and radio host Gerry Ortega displayed at his family's home in Puerto Princesa in Palawan. After Philippine environmental activist and radio host Gerry Ortega was shot dead on the tropical island of Palawan, his family and friends were confident there was enough damning evidence to convict the alleged mastermind.
Ortega had just finished his morning radio show where he frequently railed against politicians, including Reyes, who he accused of corruption and allowing Palawan's forests and minerals to be plundered. Reyes was freed in 2018 after a court voided the case against him but the charges were reinstated nearly two years later.
Press advocacy groups, including the Committee to Protect Journalists and Reporters Without Borders , recently met with Philippine authorities to provide information about Reyes' location. But the Ortega family and rights activists point to the long list of journalists and environmentalists killed in recent years, and the lack of justice for those victims.
Michaella said it was important their fight for justice succeeded so other "brave voices" could be safe.