National Security Adviser Eduardo Año has welcomed the Court of Appeals’ (CA) dismissal of a motion for reconsideration of writs of amparo and habeas data filed by environmental advocates Jonila Castro and Jhed Tamano.
In a statement, the NSC said “the propaganda against the Marcos administration’s alleged policy of systematic harassment of environmental defenders is wholly without basis.”
“These claims eventually collapse once placed under the burden of scrutiny and proof by unbiased third party organizations. As this case clearly proves, the alleged abduction is clearly without basis and is pure and simple propaganda to discredit the government,” said Año.
In their motion, the petitioners argued that the respondents had failed to exhibit extraordinary diligence essential for securing the protections sought under amparo and habeas data. The court, however, held firm that the petitioners bore the burden of providing substantial evidence, which was unmet.
“Evidence to prove petitioners’ entitlement to the privilege of the amparo writ is largely speculative. Furthermore, the court stated, “Absent proof of privacy interest in this case, petitioners cannot be said to have adduced substantial evidence in support of their petition,” the ruling stated.
