Local governor threatens journalists over stories on demolition of old art deco

On May 20, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas threatened the Iloilo City Hall Press Corps over stories on cultural agencies looking into the legality of the demolition of the art deco facade of the Central Market in in a Cultural Tourism Heritage Zone of Iloilo City. The demolition of the 80-year-old facade in February was reportedly done without public consultation and, according to National Commission on Culture and the Arts commissioner Ivan Anthony Henares, was a “hot topic” among cultural agencies.The Daily Guardian reported that Henares hinted at an inquiry into the matter but later clarified that there was “no formal investigation” after accusing the paper of “irresponsible journalism.”

Despite Daily Guardian’s corrections, Treñas, in a press conference, had this to say about the reports:“You know, you know? Ari ha, based on what you are saying, I can file cases against you! BecauseCommissioner Henares himself has disowned the statement that you are reporting! Ari di sakon ang text! Wala kamo kabalo ga-text di siya sa akon? I can file against you!”