In a time where the U.S. is in turmoil over what their government knew and did not know about the events surrounding 911, could it possibly take a page out of our government's own policy with counter-terrorism intelligence? Frankly, I'm shocked and awed (pun intended) with the release of this so-called "strategic targets" that the PNP confiscated from Alhamser Manatad Limbong (aka Kosovo), an Abu Sayyaf explosives expert. The list contained:

these targets in no specific order of importance: the US and Israeli embassies, the buildings housing the Senate and House of Representatives, the Philippine Stock Exchange, the Manila Electric Co. facilities, the Sual power plant in Pangasinan province, the oil depot in Manila's Pandacan district, telecommunications facilities, and gas stations.

Seriously, that would have been a lot of TNT. And I believe we have the vigilance and the sleuthing of the PNP to thank for. In the spirit of true terrorism, there were civilian targets as well:

Also listed, according to Delfin, were: Eastwood City in Libis, SM, Rustan's, Gotesco and Robinson's shopping malls, Glorietta, Makati Cinema Square, Harrison Plaza, The Landmark, Star Mall and Star Mart, Araneta Coliseum, Philsports Arena, Cuneta Astrodome, casinos and bars in the Mabini area in Manila.

Sadly, the PNP had to add that the PICC, the CCP and the MRT were not on the list of targets, just to make sure the public doesn't panic too much. What does publcizing this list do other than galvanize insecurity and send jitters down the markets? Indeed, a win over ASG is a point or two for GMA in the midst of a heated campaign. Meanwhile, business is troubled, investors are leaving, and parents can't send their kids to school.

But that's all business as usual in Manila.