THE National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) Cagayan de Oro City chapter has issued a statement condemning any form of misconduct or harassment against members of the press while performing their duties.
The group also expressed full support for one of its members who filed a complaint against employees of the Cagayan de Oro Water District (COWD).
Chapter chairman Franck Dick Rosete promptly released the statement after Menzie Montes of RMN/iFM reported an incident she experienced while covering a commotion at the COWD building on April 16.
Montes was reporting on an incident in which unknown individuals allegedly forced their way into the water district’s office, breaking a glass door.
During her coverage, Montes said she was singled out by a COWD employee who questioned the fairness of her report and allegedly accused her of bias, saying, “Grabe na gyud ang inyo amo si Jarales,” referring to Interim General Manager Fermin Jarales.
The exchange was clearly heard during a Facebook Live broadcast.
Montes has since filed a complaint through the 8888 Citizens’ Complaint Hotline and the Presidential Task Force on Media Security against two COWD employees, including a high-ranking official.
The NUJP CDO chapter said it fully supports Montes’ action. Rosete emphasized that journalists are expected to seek statements from all involved parties, which Montes did, despite still facing criticism.
“This is not the first time Montes and another RMN reporter have experienced mistreatment by COWD employees,” Rosete noted, citing a similar incident during a prayer rally in June 2024.
“We understand the current situation of government workers at COWD following the takeover, but this should not result in disrespect toward the media. Preventing us from reporting is tantamount to denying the people their right to vital information,” Rosete said.
