Mindanao martial law extension to depend on safety of people — Palace
MANILA, Philippines — The basis for another possible extension of martial law in Mindanao would be the safety of the people in the region, presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Monday.
The military and the police are expected to recommend a third extension of the declaration for at least one year. The declaration would expire on December 31.
"If the threat remains and there is still an ongoing rebellion then constitutionally, the basis would be valid for continuation of martial law," Panelo said in a press briefing.
The Malacañang spokesman said President Rodrigo Duterte would have to evaluate the recommendation of the military and police but he might be persuaded to approve the extension of martial law.
Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Carlito Galvez said the military already has recommendations based on continuous bombings in parts of Mindanao.
The AFP has yet to submit their recommendation to Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana.
"Because there is really a great clamor for the extension, considering that the terrorism is still lurking in the area. There is really need to constrict, limit the maneuver space of the terrorist to the maximum," Galvez told reporters.
In a separate press briefing, Philippine National Police chief Oscar Albayalde said the police have also drafted its recommendation for extension of martial law in Mindanao.
"We are one with the Armed Forces of the Philippines. We are for the extension," Albayalde said.
Senate President Vicente Sotto III earlier said Malacañang would have to present convincing arguments before lawmakers agree to another year of martial law in Mindanao.
Both the Senate and the House of Representatives are constitutionally mandated to jointly vote to affirm or revoke the extension of the proclamation.
"My concurrence or objection will depend on the presentation, including its accuracy," Sotto said last month. — Patricia Lourdes Viray
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