BEIJING - Revised regulations on guarding military secrets in the People's Liberation Army (PLA) of China will take effect on May 1, according to an order signed by Chinese President and Chairman of the Central Military Commission Hu Jintao.

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The current PLA military secrets regulation was issued by the Central Military Commission in 1996.

The revised version redefined military secrets and responsibilities of military personnel who are involved in the handling of confidential information.

The new regulations added provisions on the development and the use of classified information database, and the use of Internet and mobile phones.

It also stipulates how to investigate and handle cases regarding the leakage of military secrets and specific duties of PLA units and personnel in terms of keeping military secrets.