Dealing with bandits again
As I write, the whole of Marawi City is being taken down by members of the Maute Group that continue to terrorize the city. It has been going on for days now. Most of the residents have moved to neighboring towns while there may be some who have remained, fearful for their lives. We hear stories of individuals who are panicking, looking for a safe haven while the government troops pour in their effort to pin down these terrorists. There are already soldiers who have been killed in action, as well as policemen who are augmenting the battle.
It is quite unclear why they want to set a whole city ablaze. I personally feel like it is a next level type of banditry, very far from what I experienced in the province of Bohol in the last month. The Abu Sayyaf bandits who tried to enter the province through Inabanga were unsuccessful in their mission. This time, the Maute Group has penetrated the city and we put the nation's fate in our soldiers' hands.
The president has already declared Martial Law in the whole of Mindanao. Upon his arrival from his cut-short trip to Russia, he made a pronouncement that he might probably include the Visayas or the whole country under Martial Law, if the need arises. The Constitution states that Martial Law will only be in effect for 60 days and that Congress has to review the report of the president for his basis of the decision. Everyone is in turmoil. The memories of the old Martial Law have been surfacing from those who have been there during the time of the dictator Marcos. There is a fear within them that the time when human rights were not respected might be brought back again.
I have visited the camps of the military in the Visayas and their new demeanor gives the assurance that they will indeed bring peace to our country instead of abusing the power given to them. They are men in uniform who are respectful, courteous but with principle; happy to fight those that threaten the national security with their boots on. Although I understand where those who go against Martial Law are coming from, all I'm saying is we should give this new guy a chance.
Back in Bohol, I have learned that the antidote to terrorism is to never show fear to the perpetrators. They are weak when their prey has not submitted to the terror that they tried to inject into the society. I guess the best thing now is to welcome with open arms those who have left their homes with a heavy heart to seek refuge. As Filipinos, regardless of religion, it is our duty to look after one another and make sure we have safe roofs over our heads.
Our prayers are being offered to this place which has been the subject of terrorism by lawless elements. As each day unfolds, the plot thickens, and more prayers are said.
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