By Jeffrey Damicog
Malacanang has asked the Department of Justice (DOJ) to submit this Wednesday, June 17, the review of the proposed Anti-Terrorism law, said Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said on Saturday, June 13.
Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra (TOTO LOZANO/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO /MANILA BULLETIN)
“The DOJ has been requested to submit its comments on the anti-terror bill to the Office of the President by Wednesday, June 17,” he disclosed to reporters.
Before the review is submitted to the Palace, Guevarra said DOJ lawyers will be meeting this Monday, June 15, for a brainstorming regarding the submission.
Guevarra earlier explained it is part of procedure for Malacanang to seek comments from concerned government agencies for enrolled bills.
President Duterte has 30 days to act on enrolled bills which he could veto or sign into law. If no action has been made, bills automatically becomes law.
The International Association of Democratic Lawyers (IADL) has already issued a statement urging Guevarra not to recommend the bull for signing into law.
In response to this, the secretary allayed fears concerning the review being conducted by the DOJ over the bill.
“We'll review the proposed anti-terrorism bill as independently and objectively as possible, with only the security of the nation and the civil and political rights of the people in mind,” he stated.