Escudero Calls for Spokesperson Appointment to Avoid Dual Roles in Legal Proceedings
A photojournalist covering a protest in Pasay City alleged that police officers attempted to arrest and handcuff him while he was documenting the demonstration.
Bullit Marquez said the incident happened after officers allegedly tried to prevent him from taking photographs of a protester who was being arrested.According to video footage and media reports, police officers restrained Marquez, while another officer blocked his movement using a riot shield.His camera was also seen falling to the ground during the confrontation, and Marquez later said the incident damaged his equipment.In an interview with DZRH, Marquez explained that he merely reacted after being pulled by police, causing his camera to fall.He said that when he picked up the camera, officers attempted to arrest him and planned to place him in handcuffs.He was eventually released after fellow photojournalist Maria Tan intervened.As of the time of reporting, the Southern Police District had not yet released an official statement regarding the incident.
The Photojournalists' Center of the Philippines strongly criticized what it described as harassment and intimidation of journalists performing their duties.
The organization stressed that journalists and photojournalists provide an important public service by documenting matters of public interest and should be allowed to work without intimidation, obstruction, or threats.
The group also called on authorities to conduct a thorough investigation, hold accountable those responsible if violations occurred, and ensure that law enforcement personnel respect and protect press freedom, in accordance with the Philippine Constitution, existing laws, and internationally recognized standards on the rights of journalists.