SC resumes oral arguments on petitions vs. anti-terror law

Published February 09, 2021 02:33 PM

The Supreme Court (SC) on Tuesday resumed the oral arguments on the petitions seeking to nullify the controversial anti-terror law.

The justices are expected to continue the interpellation on the issues raised by the petitioners against the law.

At the start of the oral arguments

on February 2, only three justices were able ask questions to the lawyers of the petitioners about the definition of terrorism and on punishing intent, freezing of accounts and surveillance, as well as the high court’s mandate to settle actual controversies.

After the petitioners, Solicitor General Jose Calida will present the side of the government and answer the queries of the justices.

The SC earlier allowed a limited number of lawyers from both parties to physically attend the oral arguments in compliance with COVID-19 safety protocols.

Facing 37 petitions, the anti-terror law is one of the most heavily challenged Philippine laws. Its critics argue that its language is too vague and broad and gives law enforcers leeway to interpret it against protests, critical education, and humanitarian work.

The government has made assurances that the law does not target activists and has enough safeguards against possible abuses. —Virgil Lopez/KBK, GMA News

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