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Statement of the Commission on Human Rights on the reports of media harassment during the KOJC standoff

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) reaffirms the indispensable role of the media in upholding truth and transparency for the benefit of Filipino society. A free and independent press is a cornerstone of democracy, and any act of harassment against media workers is an attack on the flow of truthful information that allows citizens to make informed decisions on matters that affect them.

The CHR has received reports from journalists who faced threats and harassment during their coverage of the police operations aimed at arresting Pastor Apollo Quiboloy of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), from 24 August to 8 September 2024. In line with our mandate to safeguard human rights, including the rights of media workers, the CHR has initiated an independent investigation to uncover the facts surrounding these incidents.

According to the statement of the National Union of Journalists in the Philippines Davao City Chapter, journalists who covered the police monitoring “experienced being bullied or cajoled and used by one party of the conflict to outsmart another.” These incidents were then documented, some for the purpose of filing for police blotter.[1]

Creating a safe environment for journalists is essential to maintaining an informed and secure society. When media freedom is compromised, the very foundation of our democracy—where citizens rely on fact-based information to exercise their rights—is at risk.

The CHR stands resolute in its position that no media worker should face threats, harassment, or intimidation in the course of their duties. It is their responsibility to report the truth, and it is our responsibility to protect their rights and ensure that they can work without fear.

We also take this opportunity to remind all media workers to report any instances of intimidation, harassment, or threats to the CHR through our Alisto! Alert Mechanism. This platform enables media professionals to directly contact the CHR regarding concerns for their safety and well-being.

Let us remember that the media, as the Fourth Estate, plays a vital role in ensuring check and balance of those in power. As we continue to demand truthful information, we must also foster an environment where our guardians of truth can operate without fear or hindrance.###

[1] NUJP Davao City Chapter, A collective statement on the harassment of journalists in the police operations to arrest Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, 16 September 2024 https://www.facebook.com/nujpdavaocity/posts/pfbid05XXu8gBDdEbqHgiLu18uMhkPQQiVjjSUFs6eqRv4pcynuPnpkSTm1jKYojzmDstRl

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