Pro-Duterte blogger confronts BBC journalist for 'not covering her'

MANILA, Philippines — Blogger Sass Rogando Sasot confronted a journalist from London-based media BBC for "not covering her" and instead giving an interview to the person behind "Pinoy Ako Blog."

Sasot confronted BBC Southeast Asia Correspondent Jonathan Head at the International Media Center in the World Trade Center during the first day of the ASEAN Summit 2017. Presidential Communications Assistant Secretary Mocha Uson, who was present during the squabble, also uploaded a video of the confrontation on her Facebook page.

The staunch Duterte supporter asked Head: "Which powerful group gave her (Jover Laurio of the Pinoy Ako Blog) access to BBC?"

Laurio was interviewed by the BBC last month after revealing that she would file a case against pro-Duterte bloggers for outing her identity. Head was not the journalist who interviewed Laurio.

Sasot, for her part, said that she is readying a libel case against Laurio.

Head has repeatedly told Sasot that they could discuss the issue at a different time.

Sasot, who after minutes of heated confrontation burst into tears, said: "This is the disparity here why suddenly BBC contacted Jover."

Sasot's role in the ASEAN meet was unclear, but she was seen wearing a light green I.D. given to members of the summit's National Organizing Council.

Communications Assistant Secretary Kris Ablan, in a text message to Philstar.com, clarified that Sasot was given only a day pass upon the endorsement of a government official. He, however, did not name the said official.

Ablan has yet to respond to questions on the requirements needed to get an ASEAN day pass.

Watch a snippet of Sasot's confrontation with the BBC journalist here:

Sass Rogando confronts a journalist on Jover Laurio's BBC interview: @PhilstarNews pic.twitter.com/hg76Q1zTdI

— Kristine Patag (@kristinepatag) November 13, 2017