Ordinance No. 2024-134

Summary/Additional Info:

This ordinance criminalizes red-tagging in Naga City, specifically when committed by public officials or persons in authority using their influence, public position, or public funds. Red-tagging is defined as the act of labeling individuals or groups as communists, terrorists, or state enemies without verifiable evidence, often resulting in threats to life, liberty, and security.

Key provisions include:

• Covers verbal statements, social media posts, signage, and public materials that vilify individuals or organizations
• Assumes liability when committed by public authorities, including elected officials, teachers, and barangay chairs
• Sanctions:
  • 1st offense: ₱5,000 or 1–30 days imprisonment (or both)
  • 2nd offense: ₱5,000 or 2–3 months imprisonment (or both)
  • 3rd offense: ₱5,000 or 4–6 months imprisonment (or both)
• Allows for administrative and civil action, independent of the penalties above
• Complaints are to be filed at the Naga City Human Rights Action Center under the City Legal Office

The ordinance reinforces constitutional protections under Art. III, Sec. 4 of the 1987 Philippine Constitution, upholding civil liberties, especially the right to dissent and freedom of expression.