The Regional Trial Court Branch 73 in Pangasinan has acquitted Sarah Abelon Alikes, an indigenous peoples' rights activist, of terrorism financing charges.The court granted Alikes' demurrer to evidence, dismissing the case for violating the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act.

Prosecutors failed to prove that Alikes knowingly provided financial support for terrorist activities, and police witnesses lacked direct evidence linking her to the alleged offense.

This acquittal follows previous charges against Alikes and three Cordillera Peoples Alliance leaders in 2023, which were linked to the Anti-Terrorism Council's designation of them as terrorists.The ruling highlights the legal complexities surrounding terrorism financing cases and the burden of proof required.

Human rights groups and indigenous organizations welcomed the decision, arguing that the charges were politically motivated to silence advocacy for indigenous rights.

The case underscores broader debates about the intersection of national security laws, civil liberties, and the protection of marginalized communities' voices in the Philippines.