| Human Security Act of 2007 | |
|---|---|
| Congress of the Philippines | |
| |
| Citation | Republic Act No. 9372 |
| Territorial extent | Philippines |
| Enacted by | Congress of the Philippines |
| Enacted | February 8, 2007 |
| Signed | March 6, 2007 |
| Commenced | July 20, 2007 |
| Bill citation | Republic Act No. 9372 |
| Keywords | |
| terrorism, anti-terrorism legislation | |
| Status: Repealed | |
The Human Security Act of 2007, officially designated as Republic Act No. 9372, was a Philippine law that took effect on July 20, 2007.[1] The law, which was watered-down after opposition from some politicians and rights groups feared the legislation would endanger human rights, was aimed at tackling militants, particularly the Abu Sayyaf, in the southern Philippines.[2]
The law defines terrorism a crime of "caus[ing] widespread and extraordinary fear and panic among the populace" and allows authorities to arrest terror suspects without warrants and temporarily detain them without charges for a maximum of three days.[3] Under the law, detained terrorists are entitled to see a lawyer, a priest, a doctor, or family members.
- ^ Gloria Macapagal Arroyo (July 20, 2007). "Speech of Her Excellency Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, President of the Philippines, at the Launching of the Human Security Act of 2007". Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines. Retrieved June 5, 2020.
- ^ "Philippines approves terror bill". BBC. February 20, 2007. Archived from the original on February 21, 2007. Retrieved June 5, 2020.
- ^ Buan, Lian (June 5, 2020). "Explainer: Comparing dangers in old law and anti-terror bill". Rappler. Retrieved June 5, 2020.