Manila, Oct. 26 -- The National Press Club (NPC) has condemned the arrest of veteran journalist and author Philip Lustre Jr., expressing concerns over due process, press freedom and the protection of media practitioners.

Lustre was arrested by police officers shortly after attending the Saturday News Forum in Quezon City. The arrest stemmed from a cyberlibel warrant reportedly issued by a court in Davao City.

According to reports and statements attributed to his legal counsel, Lustre had not been informed beforehand about the complaint or case that led to the issuance of the warrant.

In a statement, the NPC emphasized that arrest warrants must be implemented transparently and in accordance with legal procedures, while respecting the c...