QUEZON CITY–The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) has coordinated with the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) to investigate the alleged harassment of Bulatlat reporter Aaron Ernest Cruz during a protest at the Department of Agrarian Reform on October 19, 2026.

In a statement on Tuesday, October 20, the PTFOMS said NAPOLCOM had deployed investigators to establish the facts and conduct an impartial investigation into the actions of personnel from the Quezon City Police District involved in the incident.

The task force said it was closely monitoring the investigation and had received a formal notice forwarded by media group AlterMidya.

It also called on AlterMidya to cooperate with the investigation and provide relevant information that could help establish the facts and support the filing of appropriate cases, if warranted, against those found responsible for the alleged harassment.

The PTFOMS reiterated its zero-tolerance policy toward violence, harassment and intimidation against journalists performing their professional duties.

It also urged all parties to cooperate with the investigation, stressing its commitment to protecting press freedom and holding those responsible for violations of media workers’ rights accountable under the law. (Ang Pahayagan Reportorial Team)