Police investigators in Batac said the three, whose names were withheld, had returned to a place in Barangay Billoca, Batac, which was believed to be the crime scene.

Blood stains were found at the area.

"The three were seen at the place Wednesday night. They returned to the scene after they learned that the victim was hospitalized and later died," an investigator said.

Acosta, 46, popularly called "Radyo Investigador" because of his fearless reporting over radio station DZJC here, was waylaid in Batac after attending a media Christmas party in this city.

As his remains lie in his boarding house in Barangay Callaguip, Batac, mourners from all walks of life paid their last respect to the fallen radioman.

Batac Mayor Jesus Nalupta Sr. paid tribute to the slain journalist, saying "he was the No. 1 critic of my administration but I took his criticisms as constructive because that’s the essence of democracy."

"Andy Acosta was a mediaman worth his salt. He covered every inch of our doings in the sangguniang bayan session hall," said Batac Vice Mayor Albert Chua.

Meanwhile, Congresswoman Imee Marcos advised the local newsmen to avoid becoming easy target of assassins, saying that "they should not stay outdoor late at night."

Ilocos Norte police director Senior Supt. Roman Felix downplayed the slaying of the journalist, saying "the incident is not alarming because anybody could be stabbed anywhere else."

In July 2004, another DZJC reporter, Roger Mariano, was killed by gunmen.