Rep. Biazon votes against anti-terror bill citing misinterpretation concerns

Muntinlupa City Representative Ruffy Biazon withdrew his authorship of proposed amendments to the anti-terrorism law and voted against its passage, citing the bill's definition of terrorism was vulnerable to misinterpretation.

He questioned the Anti-Terrorism Council's power to designate terrorist individuals and determine probable cause, arguing this authority typically rests with prosecutors or the courts.

Biazon explained his negative vote was because the House should create its own legislation rather than merely adopt the Senate's version, and that his amendments were not entertained.

Despite his concerns, Biazon reaffirmed his advocacy against terrorism, stating his no vote was not a backtracking of his position.

He lamented that the way the provision on the designation of terrorists was worded could be interpreted in other ways, making it important for lawmakers to ensure clarity.

Ang Magsasaka Partylist Rep. Argel Cabatbat also withdrew as a co-author, citing concerns about implicating innocent civilians.

The anti-terror bill was certified as urgent by President Duterte and passed the House of Representatives with 173 yes votes, 31 no votes, and 29 abstentions.