The controversial “Anti-Selfie Bill” has lost support in the House of Representatives after a strong oppositions from the media, the proposed bill which seeks to protect private persons from intrusive cameas became one of the most controversial bill in the Philippines.
According to the latest report published by Inquirer.net, the House Bill No. 4807, which was on the verge of passage on third reading at the House of Representatives, was sent back to the public information committee for further deliberation.
Co-authors of the bill, which include at least two lawmakers, including committee chairman and Misamis Occident Rep. Jorge Almonte, withdrew as co-author of the bill, that possibly derails its enactment for good. The other co-author who withdrew was Pangasinan Rep. Leopoldo Bataoil.
According to Rep. Jorge Almonte, he was withdrawing as one of the six co-authors of House Bill 4807, the Protection Against Personal Intrusion Act, to ensure an “impartial discussion,” on its merits in the committee.
Rep. Almonte added further that controversial “Anti-Selfie Bill” would take back seat to more pressing House matters, including the 2015 national budget, the freedom of information bill and the Bangsamoro Basic Law.
Meanwhile, the principal author of the “Anti-Selfie Bill,” Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez stated on Thursday that his proposal is now back to square one. The congressman also noted that he did not mind with the two withdrawals but admitted the measures would have an uphill climb back to the plenary floor.