House Committee Approves Hataman’s Anti-Discrimination Bill

The House Committee on National Cultural Communities approved on September 10, 2008, House Bill No. 03012 otherwise known as the Anti-Discrimination Act filed by Anak Mindanao Representative Mujiv Hataman.

“This is a very significant development especially in the light of the latest resurgence of animosity among different cultures and faiths triggered by the MOA controversy. The Bill aims to end discrimination against persons on account of ethnic origin and/or religious belief,”  Hataman explained.

Section 6 of the said Bill defines Discrimination as “any distinction, exclusion or restriction made on the basis of ethnic origin or religious affiliation or beliefs, which has the effect or purpose of impairing or nullifying the rights and fundamental freedoms in the political, economic, social, cultural or any other field, especially including but not limited to employment, livelihood, housing, education and basic services.”

The Bill imposes a penalty of imprisonment for not less than 30 days but not more than 6 months and/or a fine of not less than P10,000 but not more than P100,000 for violation of its provisions.