Jan 312013
 

Philippine-based hacktivists on Thursday hinted at a protest action against the Anti-Cybercrime Law on Feb. 6, the day the Supreme Court’s temporary restraining order on the measure lapses.

In a post on its social networking accounts, Anonymous-affiliated Private X issued guidelines to participants but did not post details of where the protest will be held.

“Asahan nyo kami sa mga darating na araw sa cyberspace, sana maasahan din namin kayo sa February 6, 2013 (Expect us in the coming days in cyberspace, but we also expect you to join us on Feb. 6, 2013),” it said.

The group also said it does not need a permit for its physical protest.

“Hindi natin kailangan ng permit dahil ang ANONYMOUS ay Free at di Grupo (We do not need a permit. Anonymous is free and is not a group),” it said.

Feb. 6 is the day the high court’s TRO against the Anti-Cybercrime Law of 2012 lapses.

Hacktivists had joined protests against the law for its provisions regarding e-libel, which they said violates the Constitution’s guarantee of freedom of expression.

Last year, some hacktivists attacked government websites to protest the law but stopped when some of the sites attacked turned out to be providing critical weather data.

The Private X post also gave guidelines to its participants:

– No violence, No weapons, No graffiti, destruction, or vandalism, Anonymous is legion.

– Never be alone. Know the dress code. 

– Cover your face (Use scarves, hats and sunglasses. Masks are not necessary).

– Bring water.

– Signs, fliers, and phrases. Have yours ready.

“Make sure that signs are large enough to read. Also ensure that the text on your signs and your phrases are pertinent to the target of the protest. Prepare legible, uncomplicated and accurate flyers to hand out to those who wish to know more regarding the motivations behind your actions,” it added.  — ELR, GMA News