NUJP seeks probe into alleged police violence against Bulatlat reporter

The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) demanded accountability from the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) over the alleged police violence against Bulatlat reporter Aaron Ernest Cruz during a protest at the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Central Office last Oct. 19.

Footage shared by the College Editors Guild of the Philippines (CEGP) showed police officers attempting to restrain Cruz in the DAR’s Central Office. Cruz can be heard shouting “Taga-media ako,” while showing his press identification as officers continue to hold him.

The video also shows Cruz being dragged away with his clothes torn and his camera hanging from him.

NUJP reported that the police also harassed three other media staff from various campus publications.

“How many more journalists must be harassed or hurt before the police are held accountable?” NUJP said.

The group said the incident was not the first time the Philippine National Police (PNP) had allegedly used violence against members of the media, citing three other recent cases of alleged violence against journalists, including during the Sept. 21 rally.

The group also emphasized the Philippine National Police (PNP)’s Revised Media Relations policy, invoked the United Nations Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists, and the Issue of Impunity, urging authorities to uphold commitments to protect journalists and let them work safely.

“We demand that these safeguards be applied in Cruz’s case, that the officers involved be held accountable, and that the PNP ensure journalists can cover protests without fear of violence or obstruction,” NUJP said.

CHR, QCPD start investigation

Meanwhile, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has officially started an investigation into the police officers involved in Cruz’s incident, according to their statement on Oct. 22.

They are also looking into other reports of harm and harassment involving student journalists during the Oct. 19 protest.

“Any allegation of excessive force must be independently investigated, and those found responsible must be held accountable,” the CHR stated.

The QCPD has also started their investigation as ordered by Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, on Oct. 26.

QCPD Public Information Officer Maj. Jennifer Gannaban said there are reports that the reporter punched and kicked police personnel. They also highlighted that up to 15 police officers were injured during the commotion.

Gannaban also clarified that Cruz has been released after he stopped the alleged disruptive behavior.

The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) has also coordinated with the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) to investigate and determine whether accountability measures are warranted.

Bulatlat fires back at QCPD

Meanwhile, Bulatlat also called on the QCPD to investigate the incident, condemning the police district’s account and describing its allegations against Cruz as “outright lies being peddled.”

The QCPD alleged that a media worker had uttered profanities and kicked several police officers, accusations that Bulatlat denied.

Bulatlat said Cruz was wearing his press identification and taking photographs when police officers grabbed him. According to the publication, witnesses also shouted, “Media iyan! Media iyan!” to alert the officers that Cruz was a journalist.

“Instead of admitting that some of its elements inflicted violence on a journalist and protesters, the QCPD has chosen to blame the victim,” Bulatlat said.