PNP launches info drive on anti-terror bill amid concerns

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is preparing an information campaign for its personnel regarding the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 to prevent potential abuses and address public concerns.

PNP chief, Gen. Archie Gamboa, assured that the legislature has included safeguards in the bill to protect citizens' rights and that the public can monitor its implementation.

Gamboa emphasized that the bill's passage is not a declaration of martial law and that any concerns can be brought before the courts.

He also noted that the PNP will await the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) before fully understanding the bill's implications for the police and the public.

The PNP confirmed that eight protesters arrested at the University of the Philippines-Cebu were charged with disobedience to authority for allegedly testing police tolerance.

The anti-terrorism bill seeks to repeal the Human Security Act of 2007.