SC to hear arguments vs anti-cybercrime law

Alliance of youth organizations and institutions against cybercrime law held a vigil in front of the Supreme Court building in Padre Faura in Manila on Jan. 14, 2013, the eve of the high tribunal’s hearing on the oral arguments against the controversial law. PHILIPPINE DAILY INQUIRER/JOAN BONDOC

MANILA, Philippines–The Supreme Court will hear today (Tuesday) the petitions questioning the constitutionality of Republic Act 10175 or the anti-cybercrime law.

Five lawyers selected from 15 petitioners will present their arguments before the 15-man tribunal. The hearing will start at 2 p.m.

The five lawyers are  UP law Professor Harry Roque Jr., Bayan Muna Reptesentatiive Neri Colmenraes, Philippine Bar Association legal counsel Rodel Cruz, UP Prof. Jesus Disini, and Julius Matibag of the National Union of People’s Lawyers.

On January 22, it will be the government’s turn to defend the constitutionality of the Anti-Cybercrime law.

The hearing will also be the first oral argument to be presided by Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno.

Protesters and petitioners have also started trooping to the Supreme Court as early as January 14 when students, bloggers held an overnight vigil highlighted by cultural performances. Cause-oriented groups are expected to join the mass action at around 9 a.m.

Last October 9, the high court stopped the implementation of the Anti-Cybercrime law for 120 days which will lapse on February 5.

Those against the law will ask the high court to extend the 120 day- restraining order.