MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Justice (DOJ) has assured critics of the Anti-Terror Act of 2020 that it will strictly comply with the guidelines of the Supreme Court on the rules and procedures of warrentless arrest.
DOJ Undersecretary Adrian Sugay said they have ensured that the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the anti-terror law make the necessary explanations and clarifications on every provision.
He added that the IRR will include “safety nets” that would protect the people’s rights to speech and expression.
“We are explaining the implementing rules and regulations and what should be done as expressed in the law,” Sugay said in Filipino.
“The IRR clearly stated that the law enforcement agents will be held accountable if they violate provisions of the anti-terror law to ensure that their powers will not be abused,” he added.
The definition of terrorism was also identified in the IRR including the process on when an act will be considered a “terroristic activity,” he said.
The IRR of the anti-terror law was approved by the Anti-Terror Council (ATC) on Wednesday, a few months after the law took effect on July 18. – Romina Cabrera