Celebrities call to junk new anti-terrorism bill

Celebrities took to social media their plea to the Philippine government to scrap the new anti-terrorism bill.

Lawmakers voted in favor of the enactment of a law against terrorism in the country on Friday, May 29.

The Senate has approved the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 in February while a proposed anti-terrorism bill is pending in the House of Representatives.

In a report published by GMA News Online, Senate President Vicente “Tito” Sotto III was quoted, saying, “It's as good as passed. It will just need my signature if it comes back to us after ratification then I will transmit to the President.”

This development was not warmly received by a few celebrities who openly criticized the bill through their social media pages.

Janine Gutierrez called to junk the anti-terrorism bill via a signature campaign.

Agot Isidro also called to junk the bill, stating, “Only cowards are afraid of dissent.”

Kobe Paras shared a photo to emphasize that “Fighting for your rights is not a crime!”

Frankie Pangilinan and film director Kip Oebanda echoed the same sentiment.

Frankie wrote, “Even tweeting any thoughts against the government can, and likely will, be considered an 'act of terrorism' under this bill. It's an infringement upon our most basic human rights.”

Meanwhile, Kip explained, “'Pagsama sa rally' is a constitutional right. The problem is this government swiftly defines opposition and criticism as an act of terror. Remember when the AFP said Martial Law films are promoting terrorism? We can't trust these people with a law like this. #JunkTerrorBill.”

Unique Salonga was concise to express his opinion, stating, “Activism is not terrorism.”