Wednesday, July 11, 2007 Eastmincom allays fear over anti-terrorism law By Carlo P. Mallo
THERE is no need for leaders and members alike of progressive organizations to fear the implementation of the Human Security Act of 2007 on July 15.
In its official statement, the Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines believes the Human Security Act is proof of the government's intent to address the continuous threat of terrorism in the country.
Major Randolph Cabangbang, EastMinCom information officer, said Tuesday the ones who are scared of the implementation of the anti-terror law are persons who have criminal intent or is planning to destabilize the government.
"They (progressive groups) should not be afraid unless they plan to conduct something illegal and punishable under the Human Security Act," Cabangbang said.
Cabangbang believes the Human Security Act of 2007 was conceived in order for the security forces of the country, such as the Armed Forces of the Philippines, to have an effective tool against terrorism.
More importantly, Cabangbang believes the law was able to strike a balance between the police power of the State and the protection of the basic rights of the citizenry.
"It has been very intelligently and carefully crafted in a way that our citizens are assured that their basic rights are not violated with the implementation of the law," Cabangbang said.
He also suggested to those who criticize the law to read and comprehend the law first before going out into the streets claiming what is contrary to what the law provides.
