Napolcom probes violence against journos covering DAR protest

The National Police Commission (Napolcom) is preparing to file administrative complaints against three police officers following reports of violence against journalists during a farmers’ demonstration outside the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) head office last 19 October.

Napolcom vice chairperson and executive officer Rafael Vicente R. Calinisan said Thursday he directed the agency’s Inspection, Monitoring, and Investigation Service to complete preliminary fact-finding steps into the incident along Elliptical Road.

The investigation follows reports that uniformed police personnel used physical force against media workers covering the protest.

Among those affected were Bulatlat reporter Aaron Ernest Cruz, who sustained injuries, an intern from the Altermidya Network, and a community journalist from TUDLA Productions.

“Media workers must be able to perform their duties safely and without fear of violence or intimidation,” Calinisan said. “We expect our police officers to exercise their authority with strict professionalism, restraint and utmost respect for human rights. Misconduct will not be ignored.”

With the preliminary inquiry concluded, the commission is finalizing formal motu proprio administrative charges against the three identified officers.

Agency officials stressed that all administrative proceedings will observe due process to ensure a fair resolution for both the complainants and the police personnel involved.