PPP: Cops ‘harassing’ photojournalists clear violation of press freedom

The Press Photographers of the Philippines logo. PPP Facebook page MANILA, Philippines — The Press Photographers of the Philippines (PPP) on Wednesday condemned the alleged harassment of police officers on two photojournalists, describing it as a “clear violation of press freedom.” This statement came after photojournalists Bullit Marquez and Rene Dilan were reportedly harassed by police officers as they were covering the protests in line with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations in Pasay City on Wednesday. READ: PCP condemns ‘harassment’ of 2 photojournalists covering rally Article continues after this advertisement As it condemned the incident, the PPP then called for an investigation, saying that rights of media workers must be protected. “Denouncing the incident as a clear violation of press freedom and the constitutional right to gather news, the PPP demands a swift, transparent PNP [Philippine National Police] investigation to hold the responsible personnel accountable,” the PPP said. As it stands with Marquez and Dilan and other media workers, it then urged the law enforcement “to strictly respect journalists’ rights and protect their fundamental duty to inform the public without fear or intimidation.” READ: PNP probes cops over ‘harassment’ of 2 photojournalists covering rally The Photojournalists’ Center of the Philippines also condemned the incident, noting that police attempted to arrest Marquez despite him wearing his press ID and were preparing to handcuff him when his camera fell to the ground. Both journalists were then released after fellow members of the media intervened. Article continues after this advertisement In line with this, the PNP on Wednesday said it launched an investigation, with PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. ensuring that it “will be guided by evidence, due process, and fairness.” The National Police Commission also vowed to probe the matter as it emphasized that police officers will be held accountable if the investigation establishes violation of the law. /jpv Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again. Your subscription has been successful.