Leonoras, Denisse Gaille T.

September 10, 2020

National Service Training Program BE – 1A
NSTP
(Module 2.2 Explore: Interview)
1. Have you heard of the Anti-Terrorism Act 2020?
Yes, the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 or previously known as the Anti-Terrorism
Bill has been on the news for weeks. I think most Filipinos have seen, heard, or even get a
glimpse of this through their televisions, radios, or newspapers.

2. What can you say about it? What are the issues that you have identified in relation to
the law and its implementation?
The aim of this bill is for the betterment of the majority, considering that bombings
are rampant in the southern part of our country. But with the emergence of the pandemic,
I think that this shouldn’t be the priority of the government. At that time, the number of the
overseas repatriates stuck in Manila was increasing because they failed to properly manage
their Balik Probinsya Program. The cases have also increased due to the lifting of the
Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ). These issues should be well taken care of before
implementing a bill that would eventually cause confusion and misunderstanding.
The main problem that most of us found in this bill is the incoherent way of defining
what a terrorist is. Even the Human Rights Commission had agreed on this matter and the
proponents have to revise this bill and not totally ousting it. Additionally, this also
advocates the warrantless arrest of anyone posing an act of terrorism, which is vaguely
defined. The law also supports the 24-day detainment of suspected terrorists even without
charges. However, we have to realize that the whole suspected identity issue isn’t new to
our country. During the reign of the War on Drugs almost four years ago, many suspected
drug pushers and users have lost their lives due to the same issue. Right now that we are
becoming alert and responsible citizens of this country, let this be an eye-opener for all of
us. Be critical thinkers and learn how to express your opinions in a way that won’t offend
those with opposing views. Lastly, our country also deserves leaders who knew how to be
the voice of their people and to listen to their recommendations.