“Not all dissent is terrorism,” dagdag pa niya. “However, if the intent and conduct go beyond criticism and directly promote armed rebellion or destabilization, it can be legally scrutinized under the ATA.”

“The cadres of the CPP within the national democratic movement are deluding themselves due to the ongoing exposure of their deception against the people,” Legaspi told Kontra Kwento. “Facing diminishing options, they are now advocating for a law that would impose penalties on any government officials, employees, and ‘agents’ who are allegedly involved in what they term ‘red-tagging.’”