The recent press statement issued by the Department of Justice (DOJ) concerning the filing of criminal charges for financing terrorism against Community Empowerment Resource Network, Inc. (CERNET) and its officers is a marching order to wield Republic Act No. 10168, the law ostensibly enacted to combat terrorism financing, as a blunt instrument against progressive civil society organizations (CSOs) and development workers.

While the DOJ has a mandate to prosecute crimes, the tone and substance of Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin C. Remulla’s statements dangerously verge on prejudicial commentary. His call for the prosecution panel to “secure conviction” and to go “the extra mile to put behind bars all financiers of terrorism” sends a disquieting message—one that creates a widespread perception of guilt before final judgment. Needless to state, the resolution dated May 8, 2024 by the Task Force on Counter-Terrorism and Terrorism Financing, led by Senior Deputy State Prosecutor Peter Ong, may outline allegations against CERNET, but it does not conclusively prove guilt.

It is incumbent upon the DOJ to recall its ethical duty: prosecutors are entrusted not with securing convictions at all costs, but with ensuring that justice is served. This means upholding the principles of fairness, due process, and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty. It should be reminded that the use of fabricated evidence and the solicitation of false testimony, often sourced from alleged rebel returnees and anonymous witnesses procured by the NTF-ELCAC, constitute not only ethical violations but egregious affronts to justice.

Furthermore, Secretary Remulla’s inflammatory statements, such as “we will never stop running after terrorists” and “you will face extreme consequences,” send a chilling effect on CSOs pursuing legitimate humanitarian work. The ultimatum “either you are with us in safeguarding the welfare of our children and future generations or not at all”— is a dangerous dichotomy, a binary stance that serves only to intimidate and silence dissenting voices rather than promote genuine security.

By targeting organizations and individuals that have tirelessly served marginalized communities, the government’s counter-terrorism efforts risk exacerbating tensions and stifling civic engagement. The oppression of these humanitarian organizations under the guise of counter-terrorism not only undermines public trust in our justice system but also imperils the invaluable work these entities undertake to uplift vulnerable communities.

It is imperative that we remain vigilant and stand in solidarity with CERNET and all those unjustly accused in other financing terrorism cases. Our commitment to upholding rights and liberties demands a resolute rejection of repressive measures masquerading as a valid exercise of police power.###

Reference:
NUPL Public Information Desk
+639174316396