The manner in which it was hurled seemed to demonstrate hubris and hate on his part,” Panelo said in a statement. The Palace official also accused CBCP of pressuring the Supreme Court in calling for prayers amid the recent signing of the highly controversial measure. Panelo claimed he did not categorically say that CBCP violated the Constitution and stressed that the government respects the right of members of the clergy to express their dissent on certain issues. 11479, or the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020, on July 3 despite massive opposition from various sectors over fears that it could be used as a potential state weapon against dissent. Several petitions have already been filed before the Supreme Court challenging the constitutionality of the new law.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer July 21, 2020 10:30 UTC