Council approves anti-terror ordinance that will penalize possession of extremist materials and paraphernalia

THE DAVAO City council has approved the anti-terror ordinance, which penalizes the recruitment and membership to local and international extremist groups. “We will just wait for the signature of the mayor, publish it and hope it will take effect before the Kadayawan (Festival),” Councilor Bernard E. Alag said. This year’s Kadayawan celebration will officially start on Aug. 14. The local law also sets penalties for the manufacture, distribution and possession of terror-related propaganda materials, including “reading material… paraphernalia such as flag, clothing, stickers that are related to terrorist groups.” Those convicted shall be meted a penalty of P5,000 or imprisonment of one year, or both upon the discretion of the court. — Carmencita A. Carillo