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More lawyers urge public to reject anti-terrorism bill
Human rights lawyers are strongly opposing the anti-terror bill, which President Duterte has certified as urgent, warning it could be used to suppress dissent and critics.
The Concerned Lawyers for Civil Liberties (CLCL) stated that the hurried proceedings to pass the bill seem to be part of a strategy to eliminate dissent.
Groups like the Ateneo Human Rights Center (AHRC) have urged Congress to reject the legislation, calling it an attempt to weaponize the law for repression rather than genuinely fighting terrorism.
Concerns have been raised about the bill broadening the definition of terrorism and allowing the executive branch to extensively target personalities and groups.
The National Union of Peoples' Lawyers warned that the bill will erode human rights and worsen the climate of impunity in the Philippines.
Senate President Vicente Sotto III indicated the bill is nearing final passage, with the Senate having already approved it and the House of Representatives expected to follow.
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The House of Representatives approved House Bill 6875, the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, on third and final reading with 173 affirmative votes, 31 negative votes, and 29 abstentions.
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Several Filipino celebrities and progressive organizations are expressing opposition to the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020.
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Former Supreme Court Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno stated that it is "the most unfortunate of times" to pass the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020.
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Senate President Vicente Sotto III stated that only terrorists and their supporters should be afraid of the Anti-Terrorism Bill.
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President Rodrigo Duterte certified as urgent a new anti-terrorism bill, aiming to repeal the Human Security Act of 2007 and strengthen the country's capacity to address terrorism.
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