Lacson: Protests vs Anti-Terror Bill is basic right, but observe quarantine protocols

Anti-Terror Bill principal author Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson said the right to protest will remain unaffected even if the bill is signed into law by President Rodrigo Duterte.

“Thus, the plan of those opposing the Anti-Terrorism Bill to hold protests on Independence Day – regardless of whether they have read and understood the bill – is their basic right, guaranteed under the Bill of Rights,” Lacson said.

He also stressed that law-abiding citizens need not fear the measure since its provisions include safeguards to ensure the rights of those detained. 

Senator and bill co-author Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa also assured that the proposed measure cannot lead to human rights violations nor silence political dissent and activism in the country.

The senator’s statement came after various groups revealed plans to hold an online rally to protest the controversial bill and other issues on Independence Day.

Lacson however reminded protesters to be mindful of health protocols amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Malacañang earlier asked critics to consider using social media for their protests in order to avoid mass gatherings and breaching of quarantine protocols.

The Inter-Agency Task Force on Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) said that gatherings to commemorate the country’s independence will be allowed at Rizal Park on Friday but the number of participants will be limited to 10.