LINGAYEN – The anti-terrorism law or Republic Act 9372, which takes effect July 15 this year, was hailed as one of the best tings that ever happened to the country, especially to the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Police Regional Director Chief Superintendent Leopoldo Bataoil welcomed the implementation of the law saying that terrorism and lawlessness can be thwarted easily with the anti-terrorism law in effect soon.

Bataoil was interviewed by newsmen here when he opened the RD Shooting Cup he sponsored in order to raise money for various community projects launched by the police not only in Pangasinan but also La Union, Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte.

Under the anti-terrorism law, the crime of terrorism includes piracy in general, mutiny in high seas; rebellion or insurrection; coup d’ etat, including acts committed by private persons; murder, kidnapping and serious illegal detention; and crimes involving destruction such as arson.

President Arroyo signed RA 9372 on March 6, 2007, but its implementation was deferred till after the May 14 election to allay the fears of human rights advocates and the opposition that the new law will be used to harass critics of the administration.

Bataoil, however, reported that no terroristic activities have been noted in the Ilocos Region yet, except perhaps in La Union where there were sporadic bombing incidents before and after the elections. Police attributed the bombing incidents to candidates who can not accept defeat.

The bombings were noted several times in San Fernando City, Agoo and Bauang, La Union. (PNA)