MANILA — The Photojournalists’ Center of the Philippines (PCP) on Tuesday condemned what it described as the harassment and intimidation of photojournalists covering a Bayan protest in Manila held in connection with the ASEAN meeting.

In a statement, the group said freelance photojournalist Bullit Marquez, former chief photographer of the Associated Press in the Philippines, and The Manila Times photo editor Rene Dilan were confronted by police officers while documenting the arrest of protesters.

According to PCP, the officers prevented the two journalists from taking photographs during the arrests. The organization also alleged that police attempted to arrest Marquez despite his wearing press credentials and were about to place him in handcuffs. During the confrontation, the group said, Marquez’s camera fell to the ground.

The organization said both journalists were released after fellow members of the media intervened and objected to the attempted arrest.

PCP said journalists and photojournalists perform an essential public service by documenting events of public interest and should be allowed to work without threats, obstruction, or intimidation.

The group added that any action by law enforcement that prevents journalists from covering public assemblies undermines press freedom, the public’s right to information, and the principles of transparency and accountability.

PCP called on authorities to investigate the incident, hold those responsible accountable, and ensure that law enforcement personnel respect and protect the rights of journalists in accordance with the Constitution, existing laws, and international standards on press freedom.

The organization also expressed solidarity with the journalists involved and reiterated its commitment to defending press freedom and the right of journalists to report without interference.

📸 Screengrab from DZRH