Groups seek Luis Jalandoni's removal from ATC's terror list

Progressive groups on Friday called for the removal of former peace negotiator Luis Jalandoni on the list of "terrorists" of the Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC).

The International League of People's Struggles (ILSP) and other allied groups staged a rally at the Department of Justice to petition for Jalandoni's delisting and for the resumption of peace talks.

"We call on all democratic and peace-loving forces to join us in defending the rights of Luis Jalandoni and fight against his unjust designation," said ILSP secretary general Liza Maza in a press statement.

"For much of his life, Louie has dedicated his years in service of the Filipino people and in defense of their rights. It is now time for us to protect and defend Louie and other peace advocates!" she added.

In June, the ATC issued resolutions 31 and 32 tagging Jalandoni and five other suspected members of the Abu Sayyaff Group (ASG) as terrorists.

The Anti-Terrorism Act gives the ATC the authority to designate as terrorists individuals, group of persons, organizations or associations whether domestic or foreign upon finding probable cause.

Meanwhile, the ASG has long been identified as a terrorist organization under the Republic Act No. 9372 or the Human Security Act back in September 2015.

It was also designated a terrorist organization by the United Nations Security Council under the United Nations Security Council's Consolidated List of individuals, groups of persons, organizations, or associations designated and/or identified as a terrorist, one who finances terrorism, or a terrorist organization or group.

GMA News Online reached out to the Department of Justice for its comment and will update the story with its response once in.—LDF, GMA Integrated News