The Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines (FOCAP) is gravely concerned over the reported harassment of photojournalists by police officers during a protest related to the ASEAN meeting in Pasay City.

One of the photojournalists is Bullit Marquez, a former FOCAP member and Associated Press staff photographer. Marquez said officers attempted to prevent him from photographing arrests and tried to handcuff him, causing his cameras to fall to the ground.

Such actions are unacceptable. Journalists must be able to carry out their work without intimidation, obstruction, or threats.

FOCAP welcomes the Southern Police District statement to investigate the incident as it reminds authorities that a free press is fundamental to democracy and the public’s right to know.