3 party-list groups eye repeal of anti-terror law

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Independence Day 2020 protesters vs Anti-Terrorism Act. STORY: 3 party-list groups eye repeal of anti-terror law

The Lasallian family conduct a protest rally to oppose the Anti-Terrorism bill during the 122nd Philippine Independence Day on Friday, June 12, 2020. (NIÑO JESUS ORBETA / Philippine Daily Inquirer

MANILA, Philippines — Three party list lawmakers are seeking the repeal of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 which supposedly contravenes the Philippines’ international commitment to uphold human rights.

Kabataan party-list Rep. Raoul Danniel Manuel, ACT Teachers party-list Rep. France Castro, and Gabriela women’s party-list Rep. Arlene Brosas have filed a bill that would repeal Republic Act No. 11479.

In their explanation, the party list lawmakers cited the Supreme Court’s ruling, which declared as unconstitutional parts of the Anti-Terrorism Act for “being overbroad and violative of the freedom of expression.”

“It is high time for Congress to do its part to ensure that this [Act] will not have the capability to harm any other person in this country,” they appealed.

—JEANNETTE I. ANDRADE

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