MANILA, Philippines — The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) has dismissed reports accusing police of harassing retired journalist Gloria Jane Baylon during her detention in Muntinlupa last Friday.

The controversy arose after posts on social media—including comments from broadcaster Ramon Tulfo—alleged that 79-year-old Baylon was forcibly removed from a bus by police officers following a confrontation with a 35-year-old person with disability (PWD), Marlene Rayko. The posts claimed Baylon insulted Rayko using derogatory terms such as "idiot" and "birdbrain," which provoked the complaint that led to police intervention.

Social media accounts stated that although Baylon and Rayko did not physically assault one another, Baylon was aggressively dragged out of the bus, resulting in the tearing of her clothing. Another post from journalist Gina Mape added that Baylon attempted to post bail but no formal complaint was filed, and the police were summoned while both parties were still on the bus.

However, PTFoMS Executive Director Joe Torres refuted these allegations in an official statement. He said, "There is no evidence supporting the claim of police harassment. Based on the initial investigation, the police were managing Ma’am Gloria’s disruptive behavior."

Torres revealed that Baylon struck a police officer during the incident and that her torn dress was a consequence of efforts to restrain her. He confirmed that the police chief provided all necessary accommodations considering Baylon's age.

Although Baylon's case falls outside the Task Force's scope, as she is retired, PTFoMS still engaged by having a lawyer interview her. According to Torres, "She expressed willingness to wait should any case be filed and declined the lawyer’s advice to pursue a conciliatory dialogue."

A police report from the National Capital Region Police Office further detailed the incident, explaining that the PWD passenger was seated in a designated area when Baylon asked why she was occupying it. Despite the PWD showing her identification card, Baylon responded with offensive and intimidating language, leading to emotional distress and prompting her to request police assistance.

The report described Baylon’s behavior as "unruly," recounting her continued use of humiliating and intimidating remarks against Rayko, which led to her arrest after being informed of her constitutional rights.

Authorities are preparing complaints against Baylon for unjust vexation, oral defamation, and violations of Republic Act 9442, also known as the Magna Carta for Persons with Disabilities.