ILOILO CITY, Philippines — The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) Iloilo Chapter on Monday expressed concern over an incident involving a journalist during an entrapment operation conducted by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG-6) in Leganes, Iloilo on June 29.

In a statement, the group said GMA Super Radyo Iloilo reporter Danessa Estante was allegedly harassed by one of the subjects of the police operation while she was reporting live on Facebook to provide updates on the operation.

The NUJP-Iloilo said the incident highlights the risks journalists face while covering law enforcement operations and called for measures to ensure media safety.

The organization urged CIDG-6 to provide advance briefings to journalists on designated safe zones where members of the media can document operations without compromising their safety or affecting police procedures.

It also said law enforcement commanders should include media personnel in their security planning whenever journalists are invited to cover operations.

The group likewise reminded journalists to prioritize their safety by conducting pre-coverage risk assessments, maintaining a safe distance from tactical operations, and remaining aware of their surroundings, especially during live broadcasts.

Aside from safety concerns, NUJP-Iloilo also reiterated the importance of ethical reporting when covering arrests.

The organization cited the constitutional presumption of innocence, stressing that suspects should not be subjected to “trial by publicity” before formal charges are filed.

It also noted that unnecessary exposure of a suspect’s identity may affect their right to dignity and privacy.

The group encouraged journalists to blur the faces of suspects until formal charges are filed, focus coverage on the conduct of police operations and official statements, and avoid images or reporting that may humiliate individuals under arrest.

NUJP-Iloilo called on news organizations and law enforcement agencies to uphold the safety of journalists and ethical standards in news coverage during police operations.

As of posting, CIDG-6 has yet to issue a statement on the concerns raised by NUJP-Iloilo.