The Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP) and Anakpawis Partylist today reiterated their call for Malacanang to certify as urgent Senate Bill 2121 or the Anti-Redtagging bill that seeks to criminalize the act of red-tagging. The peasant group renewed its demand as the Department of Justice (DOJ) called out the dangers of red-tagging.

“It is significant that the DOJ realized as disturbing frequent red-tagging complaints. To hasten the deliberation and approval of the measure authored by Senator Franklin Drilon, the proposed legislation must be certified as urgent. We encourage Malacanang not to dismiss or ignore legitimate grievances against red-tagging,” says Danilo Ramos, chairperson of KMP.

Under the current laws, red-tagged individuals may only file cases for harassment, defamation, coercion, unjust vexation, and violation of privacy laws against those making allegations.

“Buhay ang katumbas ng red tagging. Red-tagging cost the lives of farmers who were subjected to reckless endangerment of state forces. Red-tagging also led to the incarceration of activists advancing legal and legitimate causes. The NTF-ELCAC, the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency, and the AFP-PNP are notorious for their red-tagging activities. They think they are above the law and can just play with the lives of individuals,” Ramos added. ###