Capiz lawmaker withdraws ‘yes vote’ for anti-terror bill

By Felipe V. Celino

ROXAS CITY, Capiz – Capiz 1^st district Rep Emmanuel ‘Tawe’ Billones Sr. said he recalled his “yes vote with reservation” for House Bill No. 6875 or the Anti terror Bill.

In a radio interview Thursday morning, Billones said he changed his Yes vote to No following consultations with the local leaders and constituents who asked him to reconsider his decision.

One of the reasons that changed his decision is the warrantless arrest provision in the bill.

He clarified that his “no vote” is not the stand of the Liberal Party where he belongs.

The congressman admitted that his conscience became lighter after recalling his yes vote through the secretary-general of the House of Representative.

Billones said he expects to lose his “pet projects” and other privileges because of his decision, but he is ready to accept the consequence.