(Eagle News) – Malacanang on Saturday said that the “extension of martial law in Mindanao would guarantee the safety and security of the public, particularly during the Marawi rehabilitation phase.”
The Palace announced this, even as Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said that President Rodrigo Duterte would be making his decision whether he would extend martial law in Mindanao next week, or the week after next.
“I have had prior consultations with the Armed Forces. The recommendation will be submitted by next week. So the President will make a decision, if not next week, then the week after,” said Roque in a press briefing in Zamboanga City on Saturday.
He said that the Armed Forces of the Philippines would submit its recommendation on martial law to the President next week.
He said the President would make his announcement afterwards to allow Congress to discuss the measure before it suspends its session.
Roque pointed out that an extension of martial law in Mindanao would ensure the region’s continuous security against terrorism and violent extremism.
“Bagamat na-liberate na po natin ang Marawi, ang banta po ng terorismo at ng violent extremism ay nananatili,” he said.
He added that the extension would also help in the process of rehabilitating Marawi City following its siege by the Maute rebel group.
“Makakatulong po ang martial law sa tingin ko ngayon doon sa proseso ng pagbabangon ng Marawi… Lahat po ng involved sa Bangon Marawi, tingin ko po, they will feel safer if the President will exercise his power as Commander-in-Chief,” Roque said.
(based on a PND report)
