The Supreme Court has affirmed on Tuesday, April 26, its decision on the constitutionality of the Philippine Anti-Terror Law except for its two provisions.
During its summer en banc session in Baguio, the Supreme Court “denied with finality the motions for reconsideration” for its decision on December 7, 2021 on the petitions challenging Republic Act No. 11479 or the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020.
“The Court resolved to deny the motions for reconsideration due to lack of substantial issues and arguments raised by the petitioners,” the High Court said.
“The Members of the Court maintained their votes in their December 7, 2021 Decision, which was penned by then Associate Justice and now Philippine Judicial Academy Chancellor Rosmari D. Carandang. Newly appointed Associate Justice Antonio T. Kho, Jr. sided with the majority,” it added.
Last year, the Court ruled that a provision under Section 4 of the law pertaining to the definition of terrorism was unconsitutional, together with a portion of Section 25 on the designation of terrorists. This renders almost the majority of the law retained.
In a statement, acting Presidential Spokesperson Martin Andanar welcomed the Supreme Court’s latest move, saying that it is a victory for the people.
“We consider this latest High Court ruling a triumph for all peace-loving and law-abiding Filipinos as it serves as a stern warning against malevolent elements that the Philippines is not a safe haven for terrorists,” he said. – With reports from Kenneth Paciente/AG- gb
