On October 1, Bali, Indonesia was again rocked by explosions in Jimbaran and Kuta, areas frequented by tourists. There were earlier reports that the suspects in the bombings could have sought refuge in the Philippines, not only due to its proximity to Indonesia, but also the reported presence of some Jemaah Islamiyah elements here. Philippine intelligence sources have also said that, prior to the latest Bali bombings, they had been receiving information that the al-Qaeda-linked Jemaah Islamiyah was orchestrating a major strike, possibly in the Philippines or Indonesia, but were unable to uncover the plot’s details in time to prevent it.

Just over the weekend, New York City officials stepped up security in their subways following "credible and detailed threats" that terrorists would strike in the city. Although there have been false alarms in New York in the past, Mayor Michael Bloomberg, has defended his action ordering increased security checks especially in view of deadly railway bombings in London and Madrid. "It was the right decision," Bloomberg told a news conference. "I have a responsibility to protect people’s lives... if I’m going to make a mistake you can rest assured it will be on the side of being cautious."

It is the same responsibility to protect lives and the public welfare that underscores the priority being given by the Arroyo administration to passing the Anti-Terrorism Bill. The administration’s usual critics have been quick to raise the specter of violations of constitutional rights. In particular, the timing of the renewed discussions on the Anti-Terrorism Bill is being questioned in light of the tough stance taken by President Gloria against disruptive street protests.

Instead of feeding on the people’s fears or resorting to the martial law bogeyman, those who argue against the Anti-Terrorism Bill should instead look at it as a pro-active measure that gives the state the necessary means to protect itself. Prior to the latest Bali attacks, some of us may have been lulled into complacency, considering that things have been relatively quiet on the security front. This, however, does not mean, that we can let our guard down. It is, in fact, the cue for us to take all the necessary precautions so that we will not be victimized by terrorist attack of the magnitude of Bali or worse, the September 11 attacks.

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We share the grief and pain being experienced by victims and families on account of the strong quake that delivered its blow across borders in South Asia. We would like to extend our sympathies to nations and peoples affected by this sudden tragedy. The entire nation is one in prayer for their speedy recovery from this unfortunate event. Meanwhile, the Department of Foreign Affairs is checking and ensuring that any Filipino affected by the tragedy would be given the necessary assistance.

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There is nothing wrong in having a consultative body to do the spadework on Charter change. The administration is steering clear of the work of the commission because we want to know what is in the peoples’ mind on Charter change – outside of the arena of a highly politicized atmosphere. The commission is a study group more than anything else and its recommendations would go into the formal process without undue interference in the functions and prerogatives of Congress. People must not put any partisan color to job of the commission and we welcome any challenge in the Supreme Court to its legitimacy.