In an unexpected and tense moment overseas, veteran broadcast journalist Mariz Umali of GMA-7 found herself in a heated situation while covering Vice President Sara Duterte’s visit to the Netherlands. Umali was reportedly mobbed and verbally harassed by a group of pro-Duterte supporters while conducting an on-site interview with the Vice President.

A Media Mission Turns Confrontational

According to eyewitnesses and video footage circulating on social media, the incident occurred just outside the venue where VP Sara was meeting with members of the Filipino community. While Umali and her team were conducting a standard interview, a group of Duterte loyalists began shouting at her, questioning her presence and allegedly accusing her of biased reporting.

The confrontation grew louder, with some individuals reportedly trying to block her camera crew. Despite the rising tension, Umali remained calm and professional, continuing her coverage under pressure.

Viral Video Sparks Online Debate

Clips of the incident quickly made rounds online, sparking fierce debate between supporters and critics. Some netizens praised Umali for maintaining composure amid intimidation, while others defended the protesters, saying they were simply exercising their freedom of expression.

“Grabe, Mariz Umali showed what real journalism looks like,” one user posted.
“She was just doing her job. No journalist deserves to be treated like that,” another commented.

However, Duterte supporters online also pushed back, insisting that mainstream media has long been biased against the Duterte family, and that Umali’s presence was “provocative.”

GMA-7 and NUJP Speak Out

Following the incident, GMA Network released a statement condemning the harassment of their journalist and called for respect for press freedom, regardless of political stance. The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) also voiced concern, saying:

“No journalist should be harassed while doing their job. We urge all public figures and their supporters to foster a safe environment for the press.”

A Bigger Issue: Journalism Under Pressure

The incident in the Netherlands highlights the ongoing tension between media institutions and political factions, both in the Philippines and abroad. It raises questions about press freedom, accountability, and the growing hostility that journalists face in an increasingly polarized society.

As of now, Mariz Umali has not issued a personal statement but is continuing her work covering the Vice President’s official engagements.