MANILA, Philippines — Police tried to restrain and handcuff a photojournalist while he was covering a protest in Pasay City, prompting a media group to condemn what it called the "harassment" and "intimidation" of photojournalists.

Media reports and footage of the incident showed Bullit Marquez being accosted by cops, with another officer blocking him with a riot shield. His camera was also seen on the ground.

Marquez said his camera the attempted arrest broke his camera.

He was later released after another photojournalist, Maria Tan, intervened on his behalf.

In a DZRH interview, Marquez said police tried to block him from taking photos of a protester being arrested.

Marquez said he reacted after being pulled by police and after his camera fell.

"Siyempre reaction lang naman 'yon. Hinila ako, pagkahila sakin, nalaglag yung camera ko. Tapos pagkapulot ko ng ganun, inaaresto na ako. Tas balak daw ako posasan," he said. ("Of course, that was just a reaction. They pulled me, and when they pulled me, my camera fell. Then when I picked it up, they were already arresting me. They said they planned to handcuff me.")

As of this writing, the Southern Police District has yet to issue a statement on the incident.

Media group's response

The Photojournalists' Center of the Philippines condemned the "harassment" and "intimidation" of photojournalists during the protest.

"Journalists and photojournalists perform a vital public service by documenting events of public interest. They must be allowed to carry out their work without threats, obstruction, or intimidation," the group said.

"We call on the authorities to investigate these incidents, hold those responsible accountable, and ensure that all law enforcement personnel uphold and protect the rights of journalists in accordance with the Constitution, existing laws, and international standards on press freedom," it added.