Anti-terror law has chilling effect on freedom of expression, director Siguion-Reyna says

Acclaimed director Carlitos Siguion-Reyna said the passage of the anti-terror law is alarming as it poses a chilling effect on freedom of expression.

Siguion-Reyna and his wife, the writer, director and actress Bibeth Orteza—who have each made their mark in the theater and on the small and big screen—are featured on the latest The Mangahas Interviews, where they discussed politics and activism with journalist Malou Mangahas.

“[There's] something there, 'you're not as free really to say things because [there are] penalties for things that might be construed as seditious. It's harsher than it used to be before the anti-terror law,” Siguion-Reyna said.

“[It seems to make it easier] for law enforcement to go after people who are merely criticizing the government. That’s really a cause for concern,” he added.

The anti-terrorism law has been widely criticized by different sectors for the alleged threats to basic human rights, such as the freedom of speech and expression.

Despite reassurances by government officials that the law will not be used against activists, critics filed petition after petition, making the anti-terrorism law one of the most challenged laws before the highest Philippine court.

Aside from the teachers, retired SC justices, lawyers, activists, youth leaders, labor groups, artists, journalists, and several other organizations have asked the court to declare the law unconstitutional.

The Supreme Court will resume the oral arguments on the petitions challenging the constitutionality of the anti-terror law on March 23. — Ma. Angelica Garcia/BM, GMA News