Presidential Task Force on Media Security Responds to Allegations
MANILA, Philippines — The Presidential Task Force on Media Security has firmly denied claims that police officers harassed a retired journalist during her detention in Muntinlupa last Friday. The early reports on social media, including posts by broadcaster Ramon Tulfo, alleged that 79-year-old Gloria Jane Baylon was forcibly removed from a bus after an argument with a person with disability (PWD).
According to the shared accounts, the 35-year-old PWD, named Marlene Rayko, reportedly called the police after Baylon allegedly insulted her, calling her “idiot” and “birdbrain.” The confrontation escalated when Rayko interrupted Baylon’s conversation with a senior citizen.
Details of the Incident and Social Media Claims
One post described how Baylon was dragged off the bus by police officers, led by Capt. Roslyn German, resulting in her clothing being torn. Another journalist, Gina Mape, shared that Baylon wanted to post bail but found no formal complaint since the police were called while both were still on the bus.
Official Statement from the Presidential Task Force on Media Security
PTFoMS Executive Director Joe Torres told sources that “there is no evidence supporting the claim of police harassment.” He explained that the police only intervened to manage Baylon’s disruptive behavior during the incident.
Torres added that Baylon struck a police officer, and her torn dress was a consequence of efforts to restrain her. He further stressed that Baylon received special accommodations from the police chief throughout the process.
While the incident did not meet the task force’s criteria for action since Baylon is a retired journalist, the group still responded promptly. A lawyer from the task force interviewed Baylon, who declined a conciliatory dialogue and said she would await any filed charges.
Police Report and Legal Proceedings
The National Capital Region Police Office released a report stating that Rayko was seated in the bus’s designated PWD area when Baylon questioned her presence. Although Rayko showed her PWD identification, Baylon allegedly became angry and verbally abused her, causing emotional distress.
The police described Baylon’s conduct as unruly, noting that she continued to use humiliating and intimidating language toward Rayko. This behavior led to Baylon’s arrest after she was informed of her constitutional rights and brought to the Investigation and Detective Management Section.
Authorities are preparing complaints against Baylon for unjust vexation, oral defamation, and violation of the Magna Carta for Persons With Disabilities (Republic Act 9442).
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