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When there’s a hostile encounter between a reporter and a cop, we’re sure to hear about it.
DzRH reporter Edmar Estabillo told dzMM that on Tue, Nov 10, he went to the Marikina City Police Station. He headed to the police desk, which, at that time, was manned by SPO2 Manuel Layson. Estabillo said he asked if he could take a look at the police blotter for a possible story.
Layson, however, became defensive and questioned Estabillo’s request. This resulted in an argument between the two. It was at this point that Layson then allegedly mauled and handcuffed Estabillo.
Estabillo’s driver was also allegedly hit by the police officer.
The Eastern Police District (EPD) has ordered the relief of Layson while investigation is ongoing.
EPD director Elmer Jamias said they may also require Layson to undergo a neuro-psychiatric test, noting his hostile behavior when the reporter was only supposed to look for information in the police blotter.
The National Press Club (NPC), meanwhile, condemned the incident and said it will file physical injury and abuse of authority charges against Layson.
“This calls for a harsh, immediate action from no less than the highest official of the land, President Benigno Aquino 3rd, whose incumbency is tainted with blood from fallen journalists who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the pursuit of their calling,” said NPC president Joel Egco in a statement.
Egco said the NPC will also file appropriate charges against onlookers, who, instead of pacifying the police officer, allegedly seemed to enjoy how Estabillo was being manhandled.
“I can only surmise that these cops would slap a slew of charges against the radioman, who is clearly the victim here. It is common practice among unscrupulous lawmen to file charges of direct assault against anybody with whom they had a disagreement,” he said. (from a report by Henry Atuelan, dzMM)
This article has been re-published with permission from ABS-CBNnews.com.
