A student leader from the Polytechnic University of the Philippines (PUP) denied having a hand in the violent riots that erupted in Mendiola and surrounding areas in Manila during the anti-corruption rallies on Sept. 21.
In a letter to Maj. Gen. Robert Alexander Morico II, acting Criminal Investigation and Detection Group director, Jacob Baluyot told the CIDG that he ‘attended the anti-corruption assemblies in Luneta and Mendiola in my capacity as a campus journalist to cover the event for reportage.’
Baluyot is a junior journalism student and associate editor of PUP’s student publication The Catalyst. He is also the national chairperson of the Alyansa ng Kabataang Mamamahayag ng PUP.
He said he received a subpoena from the CIDG, which identified him as ‘one of the leaders of the organizations involved in the violent incident during the Trillion Peso March’ on Sept. 21.
‘I categorically and strongly deny this allegation. I have no involvement in any of the alleged violent incident,’ Baluyot said.
He also chose not to attend the CIDG investigation, invoking his right to ‘remain silent and to have competent and independent counsel’ as well as his ‘right against self-incrimination, right to due process of law and rights as a member of the press.’
‘Upon legal advice, I must respectfully decline to participate in these proceedings to protect my rights as guaranteed under the Constitution and applicable laws,’ Baluyot said.
He appealed for understanding, adding that his ‘non-appearance is not intended to disrespect the authority or processes of the CIDG.’