June 30, 2008 PRESS STATEMENT
CEGP slams court ruling on media complaint in Manila Pen siege
The College Editors Guild of the Philippines (CEGP) is greatly disappointed with the Makati Regional Trial Court's dismissal of the civil case filed by media persons who covered the Manila Peninsula Hotel siege.
The CEGP views the Makati RTC's decision, under Judge Reynaldo Laigo of the Makati RTC Branch 56, as a blatant disrespect and disregard for press freedom which could set a precedent for future coverages.
While it is imperative that journalists be given security in times of crisis while they are performing their duties as members of the press, this should not run counter with press freedom and the people's right to information.
Furthermore, CEGP questions the court ruling as it justifies the police and law enforcement authorities' overkill actions in sanctioning journalists in the Manila Peninsula incident.
Thirty-six (36) media personalities, journalists and camera men, along with some media organizations, filed a civil suit against the police and authorities after the siege. They complained against authorities' manhandling and expressed indignation over being treated like criminals, handcuffed and later on illegally detained for hours at Camp Bagong Diwa in Bicutan.
The CEGP also criticizes the court ruling because it, in effect, excuses authorities' abuse of power over unfounded allegations and baseless accusations.
Members of the media were accused of colluding with the mutineers. The police, however, were unable to support their accusations and no legal complaints have been filed against any of the media personnel involved.
With the Makati RTC ruling, curtailment of press freedom becomes a tangible threat to members of the media, reporters and personnel who are merely performing their duties in the interest of the public.
The CEGP expresses its full support for any actions by the complainants to challenge the said ruling. ###
Reference:
Vijae Alquisola, national president, 09162034402
Sarah Katrina Maramag, deputy secretary-general, 09193486790
