Lawmakers urged to withdraw support for antiterror measure

MANILA, Philippines — Environmental groups on Sunday launched an online platform for citizens to call on lawmakers to withdraw their support for the Anti-Terrorism Bill.

Through the online action platform of climate activist group 350.org Pilipinas, netizens can sign the letter and have it directly sent to the email addresses of their district or party list representatives.

“We invite our fellow concerned citizens to make themselves heard,” said Chuck Baclagon, coordinator of 350.org Pilipinas.

“Demand our legislators to withdraw their support for this ‘Terror Bill’ that endangers the lives of environmental defenders protecting our forests, seas and climate,” he added.

The group said at least 20 lawmakers were needed to withdraw their “yes” votes to deny the simple majority vote for the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, to send a “powerful statement that the ayes do not have it.”

Amid widespread protests, several legislators had retracted their support for the measure, including Muntinlupa Rep. Ruffy Biazon, Albay 2nd District Rep. Joey Salceda and Antique Rep. Loren Legarda.

More than 2,600 environmental defenders had signed the online petition.

—Jhesset O. Enano