Group files 27th petition vs terror law

MANILA, Philippines — A group of journalists, lawyers and human rights defenders yesterday filed another petition before the Supreme Court (SC) seeking to nullify the anti-terrorism law.

The petitioners asked the high court to declare Republic Act 11479 or the Anti-Terrorism Act unconstitutional.

The Center for International Law Inc. led the filing of the 27th petition against the anti-terror law.

Named respondents are the Senate, House of Representatives, Anti-Terrorism Council chairman and Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Anti-Money Laundering Council executive director Mel Georgie Racela, Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra, Budget Secretary Wendel Avisado, Philippine National Police chief Gen. Archie Francisco Gamboa, Armed Forces chief Lt. Gen. Gilbert Capay and National Bureau of Investigation Director Eric Distor.

In a 131-page petition, the groups urged the SC to issue a temporary restraining order or writ of preliminary injunction to stop the implementation of the anti-terror law.