By Jeffrey G. Damicog
Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra has welcomed any legal action against government’s policy banning foreigners from participating in any rally.
“The DoJ welcomes any legal action questioning the state’s sovereign right to restrict the participation of aliens in domestic political activities and internal affairs of our country,” he said.
Guevarra reacted to the threats made by the National Union of People’s Lawyers (NUPL) to file a case seeking to declare as unconstitutional Immigration Operation Order No. SBM-2015-025 which prohibits foreigners from participating in rallies against the government.
The NUPL is considering taking action after the Bureau of Immigration (BI) arrested last week missionary nun Patricia Fox, 71, who was allegedly participating in rallies against the government.
Guevarra had already defended the decision of the BI to arrest Fox who was released the following day after she was apprehended in her home in Quezon City.
“We shall implement our immigration laws fairly and uniformly, without regard to color, race or creed,” Guevarra said.
Secretary reminded that “like any other foreigner enjoying the privilege of staying in our country, she has to obey and comply with our laws.”
“Sister Patricia’s case has nothing to do with her being a nun, nor with her personal advocacies,” he assured.
