There should be no discrimination in opportunity for employment and advancement of their professional careers just because of race, religious affiliation, ethnic or indigenous background,” said Villanueva. 

TWO party-list solons yesterday urged senators to pass a measure penalizing discriminatory acts against a person on account of his religion, ethnic origin and race before Congress adjourns on Feb. 5.

“I am appealing to our good senators to please give the bill a chance because this would correct some of the flaws in our society where discrimination remains a problem,” said Anak Mindanao Rep.  Mujiv Hataman, one of the authors of the bill.

Hataman said House Bill 948 or the “Anti-Religious or Racial Profiling Act of 2009” prohibits the use of racial, ethnic or indigenous characterization which subjects such race, religion, ethnic or indigenous group to humiliation, fear, anxiety, resentment and cynicism in print and broadcast media.

Citizens Battle Against Corruption Rep.  Joel Villanueva, another author of the bill, said the measure will declare as unlawful the act of subjecting an individual or group to unnecessary, unjustified and degrading inspection or searches, and the act of subjecting them to discrimination in public transport on account of race, religious affiliation, ethnicity or indigenous origin.

“There should be no discrimination in opportunity for employment and advancement of their professional careers just because of race, religious affiliation, ethnic or indigenous background,” said Villanueva.        

Violators face a jail term of up to six years and a fine of P200 to P6,000.