PNP: NO ATTEMPT TO RESTRICT PRESS FREEDOM AFTER DETAINING THREE MEN POSING AS MEDIA

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has denied claims that it attempted to curtail press freedom after temporarily detaining three men who falsely identified themselves as media members in Manila on Sunday.

Police said the individuals were spotted at Plaza Salamanca along TM Kalaw Avenue wearing balaclavas, gas masks, and tactical vests labeled “PRESS,” prompting officers to question their intentions. The use of balaclavas is strictly prohibited under a Manila city ordinance, authorities added.

The men were seen around 8:50 a.m. near areas secured for the Trillion Peso March, where heightened security protocols were in place. According to the PNP, the officers’ actions formed part of precautionary measures to verify identities and ensure no one was using press markings to breach security.

The three were brought to Manila Police District Station 5 for verification and were later released after confirming their identities. They were also reminded to comply with local regulations, including the ban on wearing face-covering gear.

The PNP stressed that its operations were focused on protecting protest participants and maintaining order, not on restricting legitimate journalists.

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