Groups gear up for oral arguments vs. anti-cybercrime law

MANILA, Philippines- Groups and individuals opposing the implementation of the Cybercrime law are gearing for oral arguments on Jan. 15 at the Supreme Court.

One of the petitioners before the High Court, Bayan, said it is also preparing for a barrage of protest actions online and offline.

Bayan and its co-petitioners are represented by the National Union of People’s Lawyers. Its counsel, lawyer Julius Matibag will be among those who will argue before the High Court. 

Also arguing are Bayan Muna Rep. Neri Colmenares, lawyers Harry Roque, JJ Disini, and Philippine Bar Association counsel Rodel Cruz.

"Protests against the cybercrime law will be resuming online and offline, as we go back to the Supreme Court on Jan. 15. Let’s show a united front against this repressive measure. We are confident that our lawyers will effectively argue our position. We are confident that the overwhelming public opposition to the assailed law will help convince the Supreme Court," Bayan Secretary General Renato Reyes, Jr. said.

"Everyone should know that the fight is far from over. The temporary restraining order was just an initial partial victory. The ultimate objective is to have the SC strike down this law," he added.

Opposition to the cybercrime law had been massive online last year as netizens criticized provisions on Internet libel, monitoring of Internet traffic data without warrant and the take-down provision of the law even without a court order.

"In the days leading up to the SC oral arguments, we urge netizens to again use black for their online profiles for Facebook, Twitter and other media. We urge the people to troop to Padre Faura in the morning of Jan. 15 to show support for the issue, and to support our lawyers who will be arguing before the High Court," Reyes said.