KEEPING people safe—in their homes, on the streets, or in public places — is the main responsibility of government: police, military, and local officials.
While individuals must also watch out for themselves too, government must keep the peace or fail in a most basic duty to citizens.
Journalists know the risks of their job. In covering the Bogo City standoff, reporters and photographers were aware of the tension between the Martinez camp and the Comelec-police who were there to enforce a lawful order.
Yet, some of the officials tasked to keep the peace appeared to have increased the tension, instead of dissipating it.
Photojournalist Alex Badayos was kicked and punched on several parts of his body by the mayor’s aides and allies. Police said they already identified the suspects, at least one of whom was a City Hall traffic enforcer.
Justice must be swift. Police and prosecutors don’t need a committee and 10 days to identify and charge the suspects.
Bogo officials and the police need now to uphold the law they failed to enforce last Monday. Hold the culprits accountable for their crime.CEBU MEDIA LEGAL AID (CEMLA)
