New Covid-19 test results required for Feb. 9 ATA oral arguments

MANILA – The Supreme Court (SC) on Friday reminded parties and others who would be attending the continuation of the oral arguments on the suits on the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2020 (Republic Act 11479) next week that new negative test results for the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) are required before the proceedings.

“Please be reminded that you are required to present again a negative Covid-19 RT-PCR taken within 72 hours prior to the oral arguments,” Clerk of Court Edgar Aricheta said in a letter to all parties concerned.

The measure is under the court’s strict safety measures amid the pandemic.

Oral arguments on the petitions against the controversial law started on February 2, where the same policy was implemented for all lawyers and concerned parties before they were allowed entry into the SC premises in Manila.

Media men covering the event were also ordered to comply with the same requirements. Media personnel were required to stay at the viewing area at the lobby of the SC New Building.

Only eight lawyers, both from the petitioners and respondents were allowed to argue inside the session hall. They will be seated accordingly with social distancing requirements. Podiums with acrylic dividers were set up inside the session hall.

The rest of the lawyers from the respective parties were required to stay inside the three division conference rooms where television monitors were set up so they can monitor the proceedings.

The oral arguments are set to resume on February 9.