MANILA, Philippines -- The Supreme Court approved on Tuesday the rules for the writ of habeas data, which is intended to protect a person?s right to privacy and allow a person to control any information concerning them.

Supreme Court spokesperson Jose Midas Marquez said the rules were approved ?in principle? during the en banc session Tuesday and are expected to be officially released on Wednesday.

Marquez said the rules would take effect on February 2, the Philippines? Constitution Day.

Under the habeas data writ, a person can compel respondents to reveal data or information necessary to enforce their right to life, liberty and security.

It can also be used to enforce a person?s right to privacy by updating, correcting, suppressing or destroying database, information or files in the control of the respondents in a petition seeking the said writ.

A copy of the draft rules for habeas data was obtained by reporters.