The Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) Negros Occidental Chapter has formally called on the Philippine National Police (PNP) and judicial bodies to guarantee the full protection of rights for arrested radio station manager Erwin Delilan. The organization emphasized the need for dignified and fair treatment.
Details of the Arrest and Charges
Erwin Delilan, the station manager of 104.7 Hapi Radio FM in Bacolod City, was taken into custody on the evening of Monday, January 19, 2026. Operatives from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) carried out the arrest in E.B. Magalona. The arrest was based on a warrant issued by Judge Phoebe Gargantiel-Balbin of the Regional Trial Court Branch 45 for the crime of unjust vexation. The court set a recommended bail amount of P1,000 for his temporary liberty.
KBP's Statement on Due Process and Press Freedom
In a statement released by Jeony Bigay, chairman of KBP Negros Occidental Chapter and station manager of dyHB RMN Bacolod, the group expressed deep concern. Bigay stated that while KBP respects the rule of law, the circumstances of Delilan's detention raise serious questions about due process and constitutional rights protection.
"The timing and manner in which he was taken into custody suggest a lack of procedural transparency that should be accorded to any citizen, let alone a member of the working press," Bigay said.
He clarified the organization's stance, adding, "As members of the media, we are not above the law. However, we stand firm against any move that utilizes legal maneuvers to intimidate, harass, or silence journalists."
Calls for Transparency and Continued Vigilance
Bigay underscored that every individual has the fundamental right to be informed of the charges against them and to access legal counsel immediately. He directly called on the implementing authorities to provide a clear and public explanation regarding the procedural merits of this arrest.
The KBP Negros Occidental Chapter pledged to monitor the situation closely. "We stand in solidarity with Delilan and his family during this difficult time," Bigay affirmed. He concluded with a powerful message of unity: "We will not hesitate to take further action to defend the integrity of our profession and the rights of our members. An injury to one is an injury to all."
