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Statement
February 3, 2008
FoCAP Denounces Gov’t Over Dana
Batnag Case
The Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines views
with grave concern the allegation against Ms. Dana Batnag, a correspondent
of Jiji Press of Japan.
Police officers have been quoted anonymously in reports that Ms. Batnag allegedly helped Marine Capt. Nicanor Faeldon escape during the siege of the Manila Peninsula Hotel on Nov. 29, 2007.
As journalists, we are appalled that the authorities have allowed and even encouraged this claim to float around unsubstantiated for weeks and in the process putting a cloud of doubt on the professionalism not only of Ms. Batnag but also of media people in general.
FOCAP and its members have adhered to the highest standards of accuracy, objectivity and independence in their reportage since the martial law regime.
We call on the authorities to observe basic due process and fair play,
stop the insidious rumor mill, and respect and protect the rights of
journalists, particularly their access to information.
Related statements:
Dana Batnag's statement
In defense of our kailyan and fellow journalist Dana Batnag
PNP has resorted to rumor-mongering to justify press freedom violations