(Eagle News) — The Department of National Defense on Thursday reminded government forces that the rule of law and human rights should still prevail in Mindanao.
In a memorandum to the chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and to other DND offices and bureaus, Eduardo del Rosario, DND officer in charge, noted that the declaration of martial law in Mindanao does not mean a suspension of the “operation of the Constitution” nor “(a supplanting of) the functioning of the Philippine judicial and legislative assemblies” nor “(an authorization of) the conferment of jurisdiction on military courts or agencies over civilians where civilian courts are able to function.”
“In this connection, the AFP and all bureaus and agencies of this department are hereby enjoined that the rule of law and human rights should prevail in the place or part of the Philippines where martial law was declared and effective,” he said.
He said any “arrest, search or seizure” in any area subjected to martial law , including the filing of charges, “should comply with the Revised Rules of Court and applicable jurisprudence.”
“DND bureaus and agencies involved in humanitarian activities are hereby enjoined to institute appropriate action on those affected and displaced persons by providing adequate assistance in coordination with other government agencies,” he added.
