Multi-sectoral group reiterates call to sign anti-terror bill into law

MANILA, Philippines–A multi-sector group has called for the approval of the anti-terror bill, saying the proposed legislation is meant to preempt violence and attacks by extremist groups.

“The unwanted presence of Abu Sayyaf members in Metro Manila proves that terrorist groups know no pandemic or people’s suffering in the country or anywhere in the world,” said Jose Antonio “Ka Pep” Goitia, secretary general of the Liga Independencia Pilipinas (LIPI).

Authorities say the Philippines needs additional powers to battle the multiple armed groups that regularly carry out attacks on police and civilians.

Goitia said that the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 “is the most important and actual preemptive measure for terrorist acts not to push through.”

He said the Filipino people deserve freedom from tyranny, oppression, violence,  and killings carried out by Islamic extremists and communist insurgents.

The Abu Sayyaf is a Mindanao-based Islamic extremist group that has engaged in bombings as well as kidnappings of Western tourists and missionaries for ransom since the early 1990s.

Sen. Panfilo Lacson that the Marawi siege of 2017 could have been prevented had the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 been in effect at that time.

“Had this measure been in effect earlier instead of the 2007 Human Security Act, the Marawi Siege could have been prevented. For one, a new feature under this bill is to make punishable inchoate offenses, something not present under the present Human Security Act of 2007,” Lacson said.

The Marawi siege left thousands of civilians, government soldiers and Islamist fighters dead.

The LIPI is a patriotic coalition of 48 national organizations nationwide. With Agence France-Presse