Press Freedom Under Fire: Photojournalists Harassed at Anti-ASEAN Rally in Pasay
In a troubling incident that has sparked outrage among media groups, two veteran photojournalists were allegedly harassed and manhandled by police while covering an anti-ASEAN demonstration in Pasay City on July 22, 2026. The incident, which occurred during the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting, has drawn sharp condemnation from press freedom advocates and raised serious questions about the treatment of journalists in the Philippines.
What happened at the anti-ASEAN protest?
The Press Photographers of the Philippines (PPP) reported that Bullit Marquez and Rene Dilan, both seasoned photojournalists, were covering a rally against the ASEAN summit when police officers attempted to arrest Marquez, even trying to handcuff him despite his clearly displayed press credentials. During the confrontation, Marquez's camera was knocked to the ground and damaged.
“The PPP strongly condemns the Philippine National Police for harassing veteran photojournalists Bullit Marquez and Rene Dilan during their coverage of an anti-ASEAN protest in Pasay City on July 22, 2026,” the group said in a statement. “Denouncing the incident as a clear violation of press freedom and the constitutional right to gather news, the PPP demands a swift, transparent PNP investigation to hold the responsible personnel accountable.”
Why is this incident significant for press freedom?
The Photojournalists' Center of the Philippines (PCP) emphasized that journalists perform a vital public service by documenting events of public interest. “They must be allowed to carry out their work without threats, obstruction, or intimidation,” the PCP said. “Any act by law enforcement that prevents members of the press from documenting public assemblies undermines press freedom, the public's right to information, and the principles of transparency and accountability.”
The incident comes at a sensitive time, as the US Secretary of State Marco Rubio was in Manila for the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting, drawing international attention to the country.
How have authorities responded?
The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFOMS) expressed deep concern and is actively coordinating with Marquez and other media practitioners. “PTFOMS strongly condemns this act of aggression against members of the press performing their professional duties by covering public demonstrations,” it said, urging authorities to respect press rights.
The Southern Police District (SPD) acknowledged the incident but offered a different account, citing an initial police report that claimed security protocols were enforced when rally participants tried to enter a restricted control point. The SPD said a pushing and shoving incident occurred, resulting in injuries to several police personnel. “The Philippine National Police does not employ violence against any individual in the performance of its lawful duties,” the SPD said, adding that an investigation is underway.
The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) also pledged a thorough investigation. Commissioner Rafael Calinisan stated, “Maintaining peace and order and protecting press freedom are not competing duties. Our police officers are expected to do both. If established rules were violated, there will be accountability.”
What is the National Press Club doing?
The National Press Club (NPC) is taking a diplomatic approach, planning to coordinate with PTFOMS to request a dialogue with the PNP. “Our objective is not to lodge a complaint but to foster better understanding and prevent similar situations from happening again,” the NPC said, while also reminding journalists to uphold professionalism and treat law enforcement with respect.
What does this mean for journalists in the Philippines?
This incident highlights the ongoing tension between law enforcement and the media in the Philippines, a country that has long been considered one of the most dangerous places for journalists in Asia. While the current administration has shown support for press freedom, incidents like this serve as a reminder that the struggle for a free and independent press is far from over. The public's right to information, enshrined in the Constitution, must be protected at all costs, especially during high-profile events where transparency is most needed.