MANILA, Philippines —
What if someone on TV or online called you a terrorist or a communist, even though you’re not? What if they were a government official using their power to make people hate or fear you?
That’s what red-tagging is — and it’s become a very serious issue in the Philippines. Now, some lawmakers are saying: “Enough is enough!”
🧨 What Is Red-Tagging?
Red-tagging means publicly accusing people or groups of being part of communist rebels or terrorist groups — even without proof.
People who have been red-tagged include:
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🧑🏫 Teachers
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👩🎓 Students
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👨⚖️ Lawmakers
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👩💼 Human rights workers
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👨👩👧 Private citizens
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🏫 Even schools!
During the Duterte administration, red-tagging became a common way to attack critics of the government.
💔 Red-Tagging Can Be Deadly
Some people who were red-tagged ended up being threatened, hurt, or even killed. 😢
In 2024, the Supreme Court of the Philippines said red-tagging is dangerous because it threatens a person’s right to life, freedom, and safety.
🧾 What Does the New Bill Say?
Party-list lawmakers Antonio Tinio (ACT) and Renee Co (Kabataan) created House Bill 213, which would make red-tagging a crime — especially if public officials do it.
Here’s what could happen if this bill becomes law:
🔒 If a public official red-tags someone, they can be sent to jail for 6 months to 6 years.
🤕 If the red-tagged person gets hurt, the official can face a longer sentence and pay fines and damages.
☠️ If the person is killed because of red-tagging, the official could be charged with murder.
🕵️ If the person goes missing, the official could be charged with enforced disappearance.
🚫 And if found guilty of any of these? That official will be banned from public service forever.
📢 So, What Exactly Counts as Red-Tagging?
According to the bill, red-tagging includes:
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Publicly calling someone a communist or terrorist
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Using your position or government funds to spread those claims
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Making people think someone is an enemy of the state — even if they’re not
⚖️ Why Is This So Important?
The lawmakers said:
“Letting red-tagging continue is like letting violence win. The government’s job is to protect rights, not hurt people.”
They also said:
“Criminalizing red-tagging is urgent and necessary. It’s time to defend our democracy and keep Filipinos safe.”
🕊️ The Big Question: Will This Become Law?
This bill is still being discussed in Congress. Some people support it because they believe it will stop abuse of power. Others might argue about freedom of speech and security issues.
But one thing is clear:
Red-tagging ruins lives.
And now, someone wants to finally stop it — for good.
