By Meanne Corvera
Eagle News Service
The Department of the Interior and Local Government on Friday said it has recommended a one-year extension of martial law in Mindanao to President Rodrigo Duterte.
“Principally (we made the recommendation) due to existing threats sa
Mindanao from the terrorist groups..,” he said, noting that there were other groups that need to be the focus of “continuing concern” apart from Maute.
He said they received reports that the attack in Marawi City could be replicated in Basilan, Sulu and Tawi Tawi.
“An additional concern for the security forces (is that a) big part of the
armed component of the (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army) is in Mindanao,” he said.
He said about 65 percent of their strength is in eastern Mindanao in particular.
“Kaya they are considered one of the threats sa peace and order natin,” Cuy said.
Earlier, the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the Philippines said they recommended a one-year extension of martial law in Mindanao to ensure the continued peace and order there.
