21/09/2025
On the Recent Violent Protest that Harmed Journalists
September 21, 2025
PRESS STATEMENT
National Press Club of the Philippines
The National Press Club of the Philippines strongly condemns the violence that erupted during a recent protest action, which resulted in harm to members of the press, including veteran journalist Manny Vargas who was struck by a rock while covering the event.
The NPC stresses that journalists are present in such situations not as participants but as observers, tasked with delivering truthful and timely information to the public. Any attack against them, whether intentional or incidental, is an attack on press freedom and the peoples right to know.
We also remind the public that protest is a democratic right, but it must always be exercised in a moral and peaceful manner. The history of the Philippines has shown that true change and national progress are achieved not through violence but through peaceful dialogue and people power, as seen in our own peaceful revolution that inspired the world.
The NPC calls on both demonstrators and law enforcement authorities to respect life, uphold democratic values, and ensure the safety of all, especially journalists who serve as chroniclers of truth.
āViolence has no place in a democracy. Let us remember that the strength of the Filipino people has always been grounded in peaceful struggle, unity, and the courage to seek justice without resorting to harm.ā
āLeonel āBoyingā Abasola, President
National Press Club of the Philippines
