SC grants protective writs to lawyer, 3 others over alleged red-tagging

The Supreme Court on Wednesday issued writs of amparo and habeas data in favor of four individuals who alleged they were subjected to red-tagging. According to the SC, the protective writs were issued for lawyer Rey Gorgonio, Joselito Macapobre, Analyn Mirano, and Ma. Anabelle Illustrisimo. Meanwhile, the SC issued a temporary protection order directing Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Antonio Nafarrete and others not to go within one kilometer of the petitioners and their family members. Aside from this, the court directed the Court of Appeals (CA) to conduct summary hearings to determine whether the petitioners are entitled to the privileges of the writs. The SC also directed the military and law enforcement officers to file within 10 days a verified return before the CA. The court said the petitioners alleged that they were red-tagged and falsely labeled as members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army because of their human rights work and involvement in a non-government organization supporting farmers in Negros Island. When sought for comment, Army spokesperson Colonel Louie Dema-ala said they will wait for the official notice from the court. He said they will respect the process and will submit the required answer at the proper time. “However, we would like to emphasize that the Philippine Army remains firmly committed to upholding the rule of law and the rights of all persons,” he said. “In the performance of its mandate, the organization adheres to established laws, military regulations, and policies governing its operations and conduct,” he added.—LDF, GMA News