ILOILO City – The Philippine Army’s 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) based in Jamindan, Capiz assured Western Visayans its soldiers won’t abuse the Anti-Terrorism Law.
“We vow to keep the law from the abuse of soldiers. If there are abuses, our camps and headquarters are open to bring our erring soldiers before the court of law,” said Army Major Cenon Pancito III, 3ID spokesperson.
President Rodrigo Duterte signed the anti-terrorism bill into law recently. Human rights advocates warned it could be abused to quell legitimate dissent.
The 3ID urged the public to give the law a chance, pointing out that the measure’s aim is to protect the country from terrorist attacks.
“Help our campaign of preserving peace. We know that others have apprehension but we won’t forget the intention of the law – to protect Filipinos from chaos and fear,” said Pancito.
People have nothing to fear, he added, but only terrorists and their supporters.
Among others, the new law allows for terrorism suspects to be detained without a warrant and prolongs the period of time they can be detained without being charged in court.
Rights groups and activists say the new law is designed to give police and military forces more powers to stifle dissent./PN
