The human rights group Karapatan on Friday called for the repeal of the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 and the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act of 2012 during a protest outside the Department of Justice (DOJ), alleging that the two laws have been used to criminalize dissent and target government critics.

The demonstration coincided with the sixth anniversary of the Anti-Terrorism Act and formed part of the group’s Day of Action Against Terror Laws.

Karapatan said the two laws have led to the alleged indictment or terrorist designation of at least 256 activists, community leaders, and civilians.

According to the group, those affected have either been charged under the Anti-Terrorism Act and the Terrorism Financing Prevention and Suppression Act or designated as terrorists by the Anti-Terrorism Council.

Karapatan said 25 of these individuals remain in detention, including community journalist Frenchie Mae Cumpio, development workers Marielle Domequil and Emilio Gabales, and church worker Aldeem Yañez.

Karapatan Secretary General Cristina Palabay alleged that the two laws have been used to justify arrests, prolonged detention, asset freezes, and other actions that suppress political dissent.

The group urged the government to repeal what it described as the country’s “twin terror laws” and end the “criminalization of legitimate activism and political opposition.”