Human rights groups have once again urged the repeal of the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012 and the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, six years after their enactment.

During a rally at the Department of Justice, Karapatan Secretary General Cristina Palabay addressed the Supreme Court, stating that the laws have been unconstitutional since their passage.

She emphasized that these laws violate human rights and civil liberties, disproportionately affecting activists, ordinary citizens, farmers, indigenous peoples, women, and youth.

Palabay alleged that over 256 individuals were wrongfully charged and detained under these laws, which she claims are used to suppress dissent and protect corrupt entities.The High Court previously upheld most of the Anti-Terror Law, declaring two sections unconstitutional.

The groups argue that the laws are being weaponized to silence opposition and target marginalized communities, calling for their immediate repeal to restore justice and civil liberties.