Palace sees no reason for Congress to oppose martial law extension

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang is optimistic that Congress would grant President Rodrigo Duterte’s request to extend martial law in Mindanao by one year. 

 

“We have factual basis for the declaration of martial law and we see no reason why Congress will not give its usual support to this initiative of the chief executive,” presidential spokesman Harry Roque said in a press briefing Tuesday.

 

“We look forward to the support which has been given in the past by Congress,” he added.

 

READ: Duterte asks Congress to extend martial law for 1 more year

 

Congress is set to hold a joint session Wednesday to discuss Duterte’s request to extend the military rule in Mindanao by one year.

 

Duterte placed Mindanao under martial law last May 23 after terrorists linked to ISIS occupied Marawi City and held several civilians hostage.

 

Congress, which is dominated by Duterte’s allies, agreed to extend the military rule until the end of the year last July.

 

Duterte justified the extension by citing the “rebellion” waged by terrorists who were funded by politicians and syndicates involved in illicit drug trade.

 

The president declared Marawi liberated from the jihadists last October but continued to impose military rule supposedly to address the threats in other parts of Mindanao.

 

READ: 'Full force of martial law vs NPA' 

 

Last week, the military and police recommended a one-year extension of martial law in Mindanao, citing the need to flush out the surviving terrorists and their supporters.   

 

Activists and the opposition are against the extension, saying it could result in human rights violations and the suppression of civil liberties.   

 

Duterte adopted the proposal of security forces and formally asked Congress for an extension last December 8.

 

In a letter explaining his reasons for seeking the extension, Duterte cited the recruitment efforts of terrorists and the threat posed by the ISIS-inspired Da’awatul Islamiyah Waliyatul Masriq, the Turaife group, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and the Abu Sayyaf.

 

He also claimed that the New People’s Army, the armed wing of communist rebels, have intensified its rebellion and attacks against civilians.

 

Duterte has terminated peace talks with the communists, accusing them of pushing for a coalition government that is not allowed by the Constitution. He has also classified the NPA and the Communist Party of the Philippines, the political arm of the rebels, as terrorist groups.