Bill seeks to ban use of the word ‘Muslim’ in identifying criminals

A bill has been filed in the Senate seeking to criminalize the use of the word “Muslim" or “Islamic" in identifying criminals in print, radio, Internet, and all forms of broadcast media. Senate Bill No. 1990 was filed by Sen. Ramon Bong Revilla Jr. who said the practice of identifying criminals using their religious background is derogatory and promotes discrimination among Filipinos. “The word Muslim means follower of Allah. So, words such as “Muslim criminals" and “Muslim Terrorists" are extremely injurious to our non-Christian countrymen. We must put a stop to this religiously biased practice," Revilla said. The senator said passing this bill will contribute to the “increased positive social space and understanding" between Muslims and non-Muslims. “It would help drive the path towards a just, culturally-sensitive, fair and lasting peace and development in the country. This might be one of the ways to attain the long-awaited peace in Mindanao," Revilla said. Under Senate Bill No. 1990, violators may be imprisoned from one month and one day to six months and may be asked to pay a fine ranging from P1,000 to P10,000. - Kimberly Jane Tan/KBK, GMANews.TV