ABS-CBN
Duterte's chief legal counsel backs anti-terror bill
Congress has transmitted the enrolled copy of the anti-terrorism bill to Malacañang for President Rodrigo Duterte's review.
The bill, certified as urgent by President Duterte, expands the coverage of terrorist acts and allows for the arrest of suspected terrorists by an Anti-Terror Council (ATC) made up of Cabinet officials.
It also allows the state to keep a suspect in jail for 14 days without an arrest warrant, an increase from the previous three days.
Presidential Chief Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo stated that he would recommend the signing of the bill, assuring that fears and opposition are misplaced.
Panelo also clarified that the anti-terror council does not have any judicial or quasi-judicial power.
Malacañang stated that protests against the bill would prompt President Duterte to review its provisions even closer.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has been tasked by the Palace to review the bill's provisions amid allegations of unconstitutional clauses.
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President Rodrigo Duterte is inclined to sign the 2020 anti-terrorism bill into law.
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Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo stated that the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 would be a powerful weapon against terrorists.
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Senator Panfilo Lacson stated that President Rodrigo Duterte's remark about awaiting finalization of the anti-terror bill's details before signing is merely a figure of speech.
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Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra expressed confidence that President Rodrigo Duterte will consider the Department of Justice's (DOJ) comments on the proposed anti-terrorism bill, which has been sent to Malacañang.
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President Duterte will carefully assess the anti-terrorism bill to ensure it aligns with the nation's best interest before deciding whether to sign or veto it.
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