While the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) appreciates the police for being “proactive” in its effort to ensure the safety of journalists, it cautioned that the practice of “home visitation” necessitates “a careful balance in respecting individual and collective rights.”
In a statement, the CHR said that “media security is best pursued through regular coordination with their respective organizations, as well as journalist groups, to institutionalize efforts in protecting media freedom and safety.”
“In this way, members of the media are aware of what to expect and what law enforcement agencies can commit as a means to level-off and further improve on protocols as necessary,” it also said.
The CHR reacted to published report on the unannounced visit by a plainclothes police officer to the private residence of GMA 7 reporter JP Soriano to “check” on his security.
In his social media post, Soriano recounted his experience after a policeman suddenly showed up at his home and checked on him if he had received any recent threats.
The surprise visit triggered apprehensions from media practitioners following the murder of radio commentator Percy Lapid and the online threats against broadcast journalists Ed Lingao and Lourd de Veyra.
National Capital Region Police (NCRPO) Chief Brig. Gen. Jonnel Estomo had apologized and ordered a halt to home visitation of journalists.
“We welcome the directive of NCRPO chief to stop and refrain such practice, including the ongoing investigation on the incident,” the CHR said.
Several lawmakers and groups of journalists have raised alarm on the surprise visit of a police officer to Soriano’s house.
There were proposals for Congress to conduct an inquiry.
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