The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) on Thursday said it will not tolerate any personnel found liable for the alleged harassment of media workers during a protest against the ASEAN Summit in Pasay City.

According to a report by RH Jecelle Ricafort, the NCRPO said it is conducting an investigation into the incident, which occurred at the height of tensions during Wednesday morning’s rally, and that the probe will be based on evidence and due process.

The police office said it would not hesitate to impose appropriate administrative measures if lapses or actions contrary to operational procedures are established.

The NCRPO stressed the importance of respecting media practitioners and their role in covering public events.

It added that officers are consistently reminded to observe maximum tolerance, professionalism and restraint, particularly during large-scale public gatherings, while ensuring public safety.

Tensions escalated during the protest at the Cultural Center of the Philippines complex, where members of Bagong Alyansang Makabayan and other groups gathered to denounce the visit of U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and a proposed 1,620-hectare Pax Silica project backed by the United States.

Amid the unrest, police attempted to arrest veteran photojournalist Bullit Marquez, drawing criticism from media groups.

More than 100 protesters converged in front of the Aliw Theater during the demonstration.