Estrada pushes bill to criminalize red-tagging

Senator Jinggoy Estrada is advancing a measure that seeks to criminalize the practice of red-tagging in the Philippines, aiming to shield citizens from harassment, intimidation, and persecution.

Senate Bill No. 1071 defines red-tagging as publicly labeling or accusing individuals or groups as communists, terrorists, or enemies of the state without evidence. The offense can occur through statements, social media posts, tarpaulins, placards, public events, and other platforms used to vilify individuals or groups.

Under the proposed law, those found guilty could face up to 10 years in prison and a lifetime ban from holding public office.

Estrada stressed that red-tagging has long been associated with rights violations, harassment, and even killings of activists, journalists, community leaders, and ordinary citizens.

“Red-tagging is not just a label — it is a threat. It has long threatened the lives of human rights defenders and activists, created a chilling effect on legitimate dissenters and community leaders, including journalists, and created a climate of fear in the country. It has no place in a democracy,” Estrada said Wednesday.

“This bill draws a clear line to ensure that no Filipino’s life is put at risk because of reckless and baseless accusations,” he added.