The COVID-19 pandemic does not stop citizens’ call to repeal the controversial Anti-Terrorism Bill.
On Thursday, June 4, groups and lawmakers marched in UP Diliman, Quezon City opposing such a proposal, aimed at tightening the sanctions against anyone called “terrorists” by police and military.
The rallyists also saw several army trucks parked near C.P. Garcia near the protest demonstration
Spotted in UP just now. #JunkTerrorBill pic.twitter.com/T2Lu2pqLUU
— Alfonso Manalastas (@not_alfonso) June 4, 2020
According to the UP-DND Accord, AFP and PNP personnel are prohibited from entering any corner of the university.
The measure promotes and repeals the Human Security Act, and imposes sanctions on anyone who participates in, engages in, or encourages the launch of what is considered a “terrorist act.”
It allows 60 days of surveillance on anyone suspected of being a “terrorist” by the police or military. At the same time, it is also possible to be detained without a warrant of arrest from 14 to 24 days.
In addition, anyone called a “terrorist” by the authorities will be sentenced to 12 years to life imprisonment.
According to critics, the bill states the blatant definition of “terrorist” and “terrorist organizations”, possible silence on any form of criticism against the government, and infringement of anyone’s rights to privacy.
Yesterday, the House passed a proposal approved by 173 congressmen and opposed by 31 others.
Because there is no provision in the House version that opposes the Senate version – which was passed in February – President Rodrigo Duterte has to sign the bill to pass it.
