Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 11) — Various media organizations condemned the arrest of a radio reporter for scanning a police blotter in Iriga City, Camarines Sur.
The city police chief had Jose Rizal \”Jorez\” Pajares of Radyo Natin arrested on Aug. 2 for violating the Data Privacy Act of 2012. He was released days later after posting a ₱10-thousand peso.
Malu Calibaquib, the Bicol Regional Police spokesperson, said Pajares accessed the police blotter without permission.
\”While the police blotter is considered a public document, it is crucial to treat it as confidential in accordance with the rules of court, Data Privacy Act, and other relevant policies,\” Calibaquib explained.
\”This confidentiality extends to information related to ongoing cases or details concerning the commission of a crime,\” she added.
The Bicol Press Club and Camarines Sur Press Club called on the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Presidential Task Force on Media Affairs, and other concerned agencies to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation.
\”This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fostering a relationship of mutual respect and cooperation between the media and the Philippine National Police,\” they said.
The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines also questioned the arrest, saying the Data Privacy Act “is not applicable to personal information processed for the purpose of journalism.”
