The Rotary Balita no. 720 (May 7, 1953)

An unprecedented piece of proposed legislation has been filed by the secretary of public works in Congress. It would legalize opening the mail at the bureau of posts as a measure to intercept communication of subversive nature. It was explained that the secretary of public works felt its necessity in view of the activities of communists and dissidents. The privacy of communication through the mail is guaranteed by the Constitution and in relation to business that sanctity is essential. Of course, the danger from subversion cannot be ignored altogether, but still there must be other means of catching those who would subvert the state by using government facilities. Valid court orders have been resorted to successfully, for instance. As the communists ever try to disrupt normalcy, we would just be playing into their hands if we disrupt normal mail service, a vital channel of business and communication, when there are other means available.