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We, the undersigned Muslim lawyers of Zamboanga, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-Tawi (zambasulta), strongly condemn terrorist individuals, organizations and their acts of terror, and fully support the counter-terrorism measures of the Philippine government. However, we express our strong opposition to the Anti-Terrorism Bill of 2020 (SB 1083/HB 6875) which can greatly prejudice human rights and civil liberties.
We are too familiar with the unspeakable terror caused by extremists upon our people, our infrastructures and the economy, and it is but the State’s right and duty to protect its citizens. But the ends should never justify the means. The Anti-Terrorism Bill’s intention of preventing terrorism is overshadowed by its own constitutional infirmities which are:
We also note that the terms ‘terrorism’ and ‘terrorists’ are vaguely defined, overbroad and can be abused and misused. The ambiguity grants an opportunity for the misapplication of the law to restrict legitimate dissent and other constitutionally-protected rights.
As lawyers coming from regions directly affected by terrorism, we support government actions to curtail and end these deplorable acts. But never will we support the Anti-Terrorism Bill as its principal provisions are unconstitutional and prejudicial to the rights and liberties of not only the Muslim minorities but also the entire populace.
Indeed, acts of terrorism are a menace not only to our country but to the entire world. We believe that they can be thwarted without losing our human dignity and disregarding human rights.
Norbi Sauragal H. Edding
Abdulgafar A. Mohammad
Alman-Najar L. Namla
Bensaud O. Degusman
Haidisheena A. Allama
Jamar M. Kulayan
Satrina V. Mohammad
Fatima Sarpina P. Hinay
Ryan T. Jumaani
Ahmad Rais T. Undug
Sernash L. Hamid
Hassanal H. Abdurahim
Khalil B. Lajarato
Seraina M. Baiddin-Lim
Zharmaine Cynara C. Jumlaie
Sheena Mae C. Tajala
Jaykee N. Sulaiman
Rosebell L. Sanson
Jordanna I. Latip
Yasmeen L. Junaid
Rauda I. Salisa
Zehan I. Salisa
Gadzmin I. Salisa
Mohammad Ijin E. Ijin
Lanoel S. Laja
Meltino J. Sibulan
Adzlan S. Imran
Alnie A. Burahim
Aquino J. Sajili