FIVE local chief executives in Davao Region expressed their support to the Anti-Terrorism Bill, which is now awaiting the signature of President Rodrigo Duterte.
Presidential daughter and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio, in an issued statement on Monday evening, June 16, said she hopes the bill will be passed to protect the Filipinos from terrorism.
"It is our hope that with the passing of this bill, we can better protect the lives of the Filipino people from an enemy that does not have any regard for life, that only has death and destruction of their minds," Duterte-Carpio said.
The mayor said the city had already encountered several histories of terroristic acts "that have cost the lives of DavaoeƱos."
"It is a painful reminder as we continue to strive for the peace and security of Davao and the people," she said.
She said passing the bill is important as "dangers and threats of terrorism" are still present even if the country is facing the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.
She also said the continuing presence of local and foreign terrorists is a threat in the country, which affects its "peace and democracy."
Davao Oriental Governor and chairperson of Regional Peace and Order Council-Davao Nelson Dayanghirang said in a separate statement that "only the indifferent and the terrorist-sympathizers will oppose the Anti-Terrorism Bill."
He said passing the bill cannot be ignored and postponed as it would ensure the safety and security of Filipinos.
"The Anti-Terrorism Bill shall enable the government to implement vital measures against terrorism and shall sustain our gains towards peace and development," Dayanghirang said.
Davao de Oro Governor Jayvee Tyron Uy, for his part, said the bill is "long overdue" and must be passed.
Uy said the bill will give law enforcers more power to apprehend terrorists.
He also said children and other vulnerable societies need protection from terrorist groups.
"This law together with our current efforts such as social programs and community dialogues will address terrorism and its causes and triggers. This law will only make our efforts more holistic and comprehensive," Uy said.
Davao del Norte Governor Edwin Jubahib said in a manifesto that he and his constituents will support the measure.
"The proposed passage of the Anti-Terrorism Bill by the Duterte administration comes appropriately at a time where it is most necessary to protect our nation, its people, and the future generation of Filipinos," Jubahib said.
The governor also said that he lauds the government for battling terrorists with "a fortified approach through this landmark bill."
He said the passage of the bill is also in consonance of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations' agenda in ending terrorism and other related security threats.
Davao Occidental Governor Claude Bautista also expressed his support for the bill, saying terrorism has affected many aspects such as tourism, economic growth, and development.
Davao del Sur Governor Douglas Cagas, as of press time, has not yet issued any statement on the said bill.
The 19th Davao City Council, on June 9, also passed a resolution manifesting support to Senate Bill 1083 or the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020.
Other organizations and individuals have signified support to the bill.
But the Anti-Terror Bill has also been hounded by criticisms for the measure's questionable provisions.
On June 12, Independence Day, several progressive groups rallied all over the country for its abolition. They are claiming that the passage of the bill is unnecessary and irrelevant amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
They also said the bill might be abused and would silence those who are critical to the government.
In a press briefer on Tuesday, June 16, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said the President has not yet read the bill, but he said the latter will review the bill and omit or veto its questionable provisions.
But Roque already said in a previous briefer that the government will only pertain to addressing anti-terrorist activities, and would ensure that the "freedom of expression" will not be compromised by the bill.