Every precaution taken to avoid abuse in anti-terror bill –Esperon

National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. on Friday assured the public that there was no need to fear the controversial anti-terrorism bill, arguing that law enforcers will be held liable if they violate any provision of the proposed measure.

"We in the security sector wish to assuage the public that every precaution has been taken into consideration to avoid abuse and overreach," Esperon said in a press statement.

"Violations of these provisions shall warrant to penalties for law enforcers and officials liable," Esperon added, noting that consultations and deliberations were made to ensure that multiple safeguards are in place to protect human rights.

The anti-terrorism bill was approved by the House of Representatives on third and final reading on Wednesday. The Senate version of the bill was passed last February.

The measure became an enrolled bill since there were no disagreeing provisions between the Senate and the House versions.

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana assured the public that critics of the government would not be considered as terrorists following concerns from some groups that the anti-terror bill may be used to target individuals expressing dissent against the government.

Lorenzana also ensured that the proposed measure would not give law enforcers a "blanket authority" to tag anyone a terrorist.

Esperon said the bill provides for strict procedures in the identification and proscription of suspects and affords them guaranteed access to their Miranda Rights.

In the said bill, terrorism is defined as an act committed by a person within or outside the Philippines who engages in activities intended to cause death or serious bodily injury to any person or endanger a person's life, and to cause extensive damage or destruction to a government or public facility, public place or private property.

According to Esperon, "terrorism, as defined in the bill defends our political rights such as freedom of speech and assembly, as well as peaceful protests and dissent, as guaranteed in the 1987 Constitution."

Esperon called on the public to "differentiate fact and propaganda" amid criticisms and apprehensions on the bill.

"We urge all Filipinos to become constructive partners with the government in the global fight against violent terrorism," Esperon said. — DVM, GMA News