The Commission on Human Rights expressed concern on the reported denial of coverage, intimidation, and surveillance of journalists during last week’s mid-term elections.
The national human rights institution said it is gravely concerned over multiple reports received of members of the media being denied entry to polling precincts, despite possessing accredited IDs from the Commission on Elections (COMELEC).
“Some media workers have also reported experiencing intimidation and surveillance by unidentified individuals while covering the 2025 Midterm Elections,” the CHR added.
It said such incidents raise serious alarm as they infringe on press freedom and the right of the public to access timely and accurate information—rights that are fundamental to any democratic process, especially during elections.
“The Commission calls for an immediate and impartial investigation into these reported incidents,” it added.
The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) earlier acknowledged receiving similar reports, saying both members of the corporate and alternative press have been denied entry into polling precincts as a result of new COMELEC guidelines.
PTFoMS said it is in the process of investigating other reports of election-related threats and harassments journalists received during the election period.
Ongoing harassment
Alternative news outlet Bulatlat.com reported of threats directed against its contributor Kaizzer Manuba for reporting about illegal distribution of sample ballots on election day in Imus City, Cavite.
Manuba’s photos showed police officers ignoring the illegal act.
One of the police officers showed in the photo complained that the reporter allegedly violated the Data Privacy Act.
Bulatlat said Manuba had been repeatedly visited by the police officer and his wife in their community and threatened to be criminally charged if the post is not taken down.
Bulatlat.com said Manuba did not violate the law and refuses to delete the post.
Comelec should investigate
CHR reiterated that media workers play a crucial role in ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the electoral process.
“Any action that hinders their ability to report freely and safely undermines not only the principles of press freedom, but also the right of every Filipino to be informed about their vote,” it said.
It called on the COMELEC to “clearly communicate and consistently uphold its guidelines regarding media coverage.
“It is also recommended that election personnel and law enforcement officers undergo orientation on the rights of media workers, including existing laws on press freedom, non-obstruction of news coverage, and how to handle security-related concerns without infringing on journalistic activity,” the Commission added. # (Raymund B. Villanueva)
