The Photojournalists’ Center of the Philippines (PCP) has condemned the alleged “harassment and intimidation” by police officers against members of the press covering a rally in Pasay City on Wednesday and called for an investigation into the incident.

In a statement released on July 22, the group denounced the incident involving photojournalists who were documenting a rally organized by militant group BAYAN, in connection with the ongoing ASEAN meetings, saying members of the press “must be allowed to carry out their work without threats, obstruction, or intimidation.“

“Journalists and photojournalists perform a vital public service by documenting events of public interest,“ PCP said.

Among those affected were freelance photojournalist and former chief photographer of the Associated Press in the Philippines Bullit Marquez and Manila Times photo editor Rene Dilan.

PCP said police officers confronted the two journalists and prevented them from taking photographs of the arrest of protesters.

The group alleged that authorities attempted to arrest Marquez, who was wearing press credentials, and were about to handcuff him during the confrontation. His camera reportedly fell to the ground in the process. Both journalists were later released after fellow members of the media intervened and protested the attempted arrest.

PCP emphasized that journalists and photojournalists provide an essential public service by documenting events of public interest.

“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 group said.

“The safety and independence of journalists must be respected at all times, including during protests and other high-profile public events,” it added.

PCP called on authorities to investigate the incident, hold those responsible accountable, and ensure that all law enforcement personnel respect and protect the rights of journalists in accordance with the Constitution, existing laws, and international standards on press freedom.

“We stand in solidarity with our colleagues who were harassed and reaffirm our commitment to defending the right to report freely, safely, and without interference,” PCP said.