Philippine authorities are investigating reports that police officers harassed two photojournalists covering a protest rally in Pasay City linked to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) meetings. The National Police Commission (Napolcom) said it will look into the allegations and take appropriate action after reviewing its findings. Separately, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said it has begun an investigation led by procedures meant to ensure evidence-based handling, due process, and fairness.
Photojournalist groups condemned the incident and called for authorities to investigate. The Photojournalists’ Center of the Philippines (PCP) identified the freelance photojournalist Bullit Marquez and Manila Times photo editor Rene Dilan as the two reportedly targeted. According to the PCP, police officers confronted the two and prevented them from photographing the arrest of protesters, and PCP said officers attempted to arrest Marquez despite him wearing press credentials. Another group, the Press Photographers of the Philippines (PPP), also criticized the police after the alleged harassment during the anti-ASEAN demonstration.
Authorities have not yet released results of the investigations.
