MANILA, Philippines — After nine settings in nearly four months, the Supreme Court on May 17 wrapped up the oral arguments on the 37 consolidated petitions against the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020. But retired Chief Justice Reynato Puno said the cases must be resolved based on merits because the petitioners have legal standing. READ: Work with poor leaves activists on ATC list few assets to freeze — kinPolitical questionCalida defended the anti-terrorism law saying it is a political question. Section 25: On designation of suspected terroristsGovernment lawyers asserted that designation is an executive and administrative function of the Anti-Terrorism Council. Prior to the oral arguments, the petitioners made a collective plea to the SC to issue a temporary restraining order on the enforcement of the law.

Source: Philippine Star May 19, 2021 01:30 UTC