Duterte vows no repeat of Martial Law if elected

MANILA, Philippines — Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte assured that there will be no repeat of Martial Law once he is elected president.

The presidential bet told members of the press on Wednesday afternoon that there is no need for him to declare Martial Law.

"All I need is for everybody to follow the law," Duterte said, adding that he will be strict and harsh in enforcing the law.

Duterte said that law-abiding citizens do not have to worry as he will only be hard against criminals.

The presidential aspirant assured that he will not allow law enforcement agencies to abuse their power.

Duterte made these comments as the Philippines celebrates the 30th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution.

READ: Special features: Everything you need to know about 'EDSA at 30'

The Davao City mayor stressed his iron-first policy against criminality as he spoke before the Philippine Association of Local Treasurers and Assessors Inc. assembly yesterday.

"I will not hesitate to order the police to shoot you dead," Duterte said, referring to criminals who will refuse arrest.

During the presidential debates in Cagayan de Oro last Sunday, Duterte warned of a "bloody presidency" if he wins the May 9 elections.

"If I become president, it would be bloody because we'll order the killing of all criminals," Duterte said. — Patricia Lourdes Viray