Reference is made to the letter of Rannie C. Agustin (Inquirer, 5/15/09) in connection with his account of the incidents that transpired on May 13, 2009.

Our attention has been called to this matter by the Makati City Hall, and this has prompted us to make an investigation regarding the actions of the roving guard who approached Agustin that day. According to the report of the Security Detachment Unit of the Makati Commercial Estate Association (Macea), the roving guard approached Agustin when he saw him with a placard along Rada Street and thereafter told him that such display is prohibited within the Macea?s area of responsibility. After which, Agustin was again approached by the same roving guard along Amorsolo Street, where similar events took place.

While it may be said that the conduct of the roving guard was a result of his overzealousness to prevent any disturbances of peace in his area of responsibility, we nevertheless reprimanded him. In addressing the matter, we also reiterated that despite such duty, no person may adopt such measures that would result in the infringement of any citizen?s right to freedom of speech and expression.

?JAIME R. MATIAS,
general manager,
Makati Commercial Estate Association Inc.,
Washington SyCip Park,
Legazpi Village, Makati City