CHR Probes QC Police for Excessive Force Against Journalist During Protest

The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has launched a motu proprio investigation into allegations that Quezon City police used excessive force against journalists during a farmer-led protest outside the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) on October 19, 2026. The probe follows reports of physical altercations between police and media personnel, including Bulatlat reporter Aaron Ernest Cruz and campus journalist Robie Matias, during the "Peasant Month Kampuhan" encampment.

Quick Response Operation Underway at DAR

CHR Commissioner Beda A. Epres confirmed the commission is conducting a Quick Response Operation to examine the events of October 19. Investigators have begun gathering witness accounts and have formally requested operational records from the Quezon City Police District (QCPD). According to the CHR, the investigation will proceed regardless of whether a formal complaint is filed, as the commission works to secure medical records and sworn statements from those involved.

The CHR is specifically reviewing reports that Mr. Cruz was injured during an attempted arrest. Witnesses and colleagues reported that Mr. Cruz’s clothing was torn, his bag went missing, and he sustained bruising after being pulled by officers despite identifying himself as a member of the press. The College Editors Guild of the Philippines released video footage of the incident, which the CHR is utilizing in its inquiry.

Conflicting Accounts Emerge from the Protest

The QCPD stated on October 20 that it is investigating the viral video from the protest, alleging that an individual identifying as a media worker used profanity and kicked police personnel. The district maintained that its officers were acting to prevent the situation from escalating, characterizing the interaction as a "verbal altercation" that occurred around 5 p.m. during a gathering of approximately 200 protesters.

In contrast, other reports suggest a different sequence of events. Mr. Cruz stated he was backing away from a commotion between protesters and authorities when he was grabbed, hit with a riot shield, and dragged 20 to 40 meters. He later obtained a medical-legal document confirming an injury to his right eyebrow. Robie Matias, a campus journalist from Far Eastern University, also reported being injured earlier that day when police allegedly stepped on him while dispersing the camp.

Mandates on Media Safety and Maximum Tolerance

The CHR reiterated that law enforcement must adhere to National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) Resolution No. 2025-0472, which outlines strict rules for media relations and the safety of journalists. Section 7(3) of the resolution explicitly prohibits the use of force against media practitioners under any circumstances, including during the dispersal of demonstrations.

Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte has also ordered an investigation into the incident. The city government emphasized that its policy requires the QCPD to practice "maximum tolerance" during public assemblies, noting that any personnel found to have used power to hurt, intimidate, or obstruct the peaceful assembly should be held accountable.

Status of Legal Complaints and Police Records

What is the status of the legal complaints regarding the incident?
The CHR is currently assisting affected individuals in filing formal complaints. While the CHR has initiated an independent investigation, it is still in the process of gathering statements and medical records to support potential legal actions.

Scope of the Ongoing CHR Inquiry

What specific police actions are being investigated?
The CHR is looking into allegations of excessive force, including the physical restraint and alleged assault of journalists who identified themselves as members of the press. The investigation covers the treatment of both professional reporters and campus journalists present at the DAR site.

When will the QCPD release its operational records?
The timeline for the release of these records remains pending. The CHR has requested these documents as part of its ongoing inquiry, and the QCPD has indicated it is still reviewing the incident to determine if any laws were breached.