There is nothing to fear about the anti-terror law, top military and police officials of Visayas assured, in response to apprehension over the implementation the Human Security Act, that takes effect July 15.

Lt.Gen. Cardoso Luna, commanding general of the military's Central Command in Visayas, yesterday said the law is to protect the Filipino citizens, and not to abuse them.

Luna said the Human Security Act will add more teeth to government's effort in fighting terrorism.

Militant organizations in Negros are expecting a "worst case scenario" once the anti-terror law is implemented in the country.

Western Visayas police director Wilfredo Dulay said the people should not worry about the anti-terror law as it will enhance the government's war against terrorism, he added.

As stipulated in the Human Security Act, the period of detention of arrested suspects will be increased from 36 hours to three days. This will give ample time for investigators to do their job, especially those who are engaged in terroristic activities, he said.

President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo said communist terrorists and rogue military personnel and policemen will be among the priority targets of the Human Security Act.

Brig. Gen. Gregorio Fajardo, 303rd Infantry Brigade commander, said it is the terrorists who fear the anti-terror law. "This is for the good of all Filipinos", he added.

The Catholic Bishop Bishops Conference of the Philippines is urging the government to review the RA 9372, or the Human Security Act, expressing fears that it could be abused by authorities.*GPB

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