Rappler
Sotto to critics: Only terrorists, supporters afraid of anti-terror bill
Senate President Vicente Sotto III stated that only terrorists and their supporters should be afraid of the Anti-Terrorism Bill.
Sotto, the principal author of the bill, dismissed concerns from progressive and human rights groups who fear the measure could lead to abuses and silence dissent.
He urged critics to read the bill first before reacting, emphasizing that its provisions are aimed at combating terrorism.
Senator Panfilo Lacson, the bill's sponsor, also asserted that the measure includes safeguards to protect human rights and prevent abuses.
President Duterte certified the House version of the bill as urgent, allowing Congress to potentially approve and ratify it before their adjournment on June 5.
Sotto indicated that the bill is close to being passed, pending ratification and the president's signature.
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Senator Panfilo Lacson, principal author and sponsor, asserts the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 is designed to safeguard the Philippines and its citizens from domestic and foreign terrorist groups.
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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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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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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.
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Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana and National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. have allayed public fears regarding the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, assuring that safeguards are in place to protect civil liberties.
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