Duterte, security cluster study martial law extention

MANILA, Philippines — President Duterte is reassessing the peace and order situation in Mindanao to determine if there is a need to seek Congress approval for another extension of martial law in the region.

Salvador Panelo, presidential spokesman and chief presidential legal counsel, said the President early this week convened the executive committee of the National Security Council (EC-NSC) which briefed him on the peace and order situation in Mindanao.

“Taking into account the lingering terrorist and communist threats, the EC-NSC committed to put into study the possible lifting or further extension of martial law,” he said. Martial law in Mindanao is in force until Dec. 31.

According to Panelo, the committee noted the overwhelming support from Mindanao residents for the implementation of martial law in the region. They also expressed belief that extending martial law will help stabilize Mindanao as well as boost efforts to rehabilitate the battle-scarred Marawi.

“The President is very much involved in various matters concerning our country but considers national security as one of the most vital concerns that must always be overseen by the government,” Panelo said.

Duterte convened the EC-NSC last Tuesday at the Ebuen Airbase in Lapu-Lapu City, Cebu. He also discussed other security concerns with officials.

Earlier, Malacañang said it would first seek recommendation from the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police before deciding whether to retain or scrap martial law in Mindanao.