Philippine Artists Launch Solidarity Campaign Against Anti-Terrorism Law

Over 100 Philippine artists, curators, writers, and academics have signed a joint statement condemning the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020. The law, fast-tracked by President Rodrigo Duterte's administration and set to take effect on 18 July, permits warrantless arrests, extended surveillance, and detention without charge for up to 24 days. Organized through the Ateneo Art Awards, the Solidarity Against Silencing campaign warns that vague definitions of terrorism could target political critics in cultural and media sectors. The statement references recent suppression of free expression, including the May shutdown of broadcasting network ABS-CBN and the cyber-libel conviction of journalist Maria Ressa and writer Reynaldo Santos Jr. Artists argue the law threatens critical thinking and basic human rights during the COVID-19 pandemic, when millions face economic vulnerability. Marv Recinto's ArtReview Asia feature connects current tensions to historical artistic suppression under the Marcos era.