Anti-terror bill subject to review, no rush signing it into law – Palace

(ACE MORANDANTE/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO)

MANILA, Philippines — While the proposed amendments to the country’s anti-terrorism law was certified urgent, Malacañang said Thursday this does not mean that President Rodrigo Duterte will automatically sign it into law.

In an online press briefing, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said the President will still review the measure’s compliance to the Constitution.

“Alam niyo, bagamat it’s certified urgent, hindi naman po automatic na pipirmahan yan ng Presidente,” Roque said.

(You know what, even if it was certified urgent, it does not mean that the President will automatically sign it.)

“That is still subject to final review by the President to ensure that it is compliant with our Constitution,” he added.

The anti-terror bill is now up for the President’s signature after the House of Representatives approved the measure on its final reading Wednesday.

The Senate passed the bill on final reading in February.

But several groups and lawmakers expressed concern over the anti-terror bill saying it could be “abused” to crack down on dissent.

Some critics also questioned the government’s interest in  the bill amid the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.

Under the proposed measure, any person who shall threaten to commit terrorism and those who will propose any terroristic acts or incite others to commit terrorism shall suffer the penalty of 12 years in prison.

GSG