A senior opposition lawmaker has urged the Marcos administration to invite a United Nations expert to investigate the alleged misuse of the Philippines’ anti-terrorism laws, warning that current enforcement may undermine civil liberties and due process.
House Senior Deputy Minority Leader and Mamamayang Liberal Party-list Rep. Leila de Lima filed House Resolution No. 939, calling on the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), in coordination with other agencies, to invite the UN Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights while countering terrorism for an official visit.
De Lima said the proposed visit would allow an independent and comprehensive review of the country’s counter-terrorism and terrorism-financing laws, particularly their implementation and impact on fundamental freedoms. She added that the findings could guide Congress in determining whether amendments or stronger safeguards are needed to align the laws with constitutional and international standards.
The former justice secretary cited concerns raised by international human rights groups and civil society organizations over provisions of Republic Act No. 11479, or the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, and Republic Act No. 10168, or the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012. These include alleged vague definitions and broad provisions that may be open to abuse.
She said the interpretation of “terrorism” and “terrorism financing” under current laws has reportedly led to the tagging of some individuals and organizations as suspects, resulting in surveillance and freezing of assets. Reports from human rights group Karapatan indicate that more than 100 activists, human rights defenders, and critics have faced charges or investigations under these laws.
The resolution also cited cases involving the freezing of bank accounts of non-government organizations engaged in humanitarian work, as well as complaints filed against activists, indigenous leaders, youth organizers, and legal aides. De Lima said these raise concerns about the impact of counter-terror measures on lawful civic activities.
She also cited the case of journalist Frenchie Mae Cumpio, whose conviction on terrorism-financing charges has drawn concern from international observers, including UN experts. De Lima described the continued detention of Cumpio and community worker Marielle Domequil as a setback for press freedom and civil rights.
The lawmaker has previously filed resolutions seeking congressional inquiries into the implementation of both laws, amid allegations they are being used to target dissent rather than legitimate security threats.
Under the resolution, recommendations from the UN expert’s visit would be submitted to Congress to support legislative review and possible amendments.
De Lima said engaging with UN mechanisms demonstrates transparency and accountability, and does not undermine national sovereignty. She stressed that laws meant to protect the public should not be used to suppress fundamental rights and must be enforced in line with the Constitution and the country’s international commitments.