[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Chun-hee] Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has signed an anti-terrorism law that allows the detention of terror suspects for up to 24 days without an arrest or detention warrant.
According to local media and foreign news on the 4th, Harry Roque, spokesperson for the Philippine Presidential Palace, announced that President Duterte signed the bill yesterday afternoon. Roque explained, "The president's signature demonstrates the government's commitment to eradicating terrorism, which has long plagued the Philippines and caused unimaginable fear and sorrow to many citizens."
The anti-terrorism law signed by President Duterte allows authorities to detain terror suspects for up to 24 days without a warrant and permits wiretapping if necessary. It also defines terrorist acts as those endangering citizens' lives or harming state and private facilities and properties, including the manufacture and distribution of explosives or weapons. The law also punishes incitement through speeches, statements, banners, and other means.
Since the law was designated as a fast-track bill by President Duterte and passed by the Senate, it will take effect immediately upon the president's signature and promulgation.
Philippine human rights groups oppose the law, arguing that the definition of terrorist acts is vague and overly broad, which could lead to abuse. They are particularly concerned that labeling human rights activities as terrorism could restrict freedom of expression.
The international human rights organization Human Rights Watch (HRW) criticized the signing, stating, "Under President Duterte, even slight criticism of the government can result in being labeled a terrorist." Phil Robertson, HRW's Asia deputy director, told AFP, "By signing the anti-terrorism law, President Duterte has pushed Philippine democracy into a deep abyss," adding, "There is a significant risk of further deterioration of the human rights situation in the Philippines, which has sharply declined since the 'war on drugs' began four years ago."
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