Maguindanao massacre trial open to media but no videos, please–Sereno

Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno. CATHY MIRANDA/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — The Maguindanao massacre trial is open to media subject to conditions, Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno said Sunday.

Asked by reporters if media could still cover the trial, Sereno said, “Yes, bawal lang ang video (just don’t shoot video).”

In August, police officials barred media from Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig where the trial was being held. Among the reasons given were the lack of valid stickers on media vehicles and a full courtroom.

Senior Superintendent Wilben Mayor, Philippine National Police spokesperson, later said they were only following a court order.

“The court has the authority on whatever regulations that has to be implemented. The PNP is just following the order of the court,” Mayor said, responding to a complaint against him and other police officials for barring media from the Maguindanao trial.

Presiding Judge Jocelyn Solis-Reyes has said journalists covering the hearings can only use pen and paper.

In 2012, the Supreme Court prohibited live broadcasts of the trial.

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