Martial law extension challenged before SC

Seven opposition lawmakers asked the Supreme Court (SC) yesterday to declare as unconstitutional the reextension of martial law in Mindanao until Dec. 31, 2018.

Their petition sought the issuance of a temporary restraining order (TRO) to stop the re-extension that was approved by both houses of Congress in a 240-27 vote last December 13.

Those who filed the petition were Reps. Edcel Lagman, Tomasito Villarin, Edgar Erice, Teddy Brawner Baguilat, Jr., Gary Alejano and Emmanuel Billones – known as the “Magnificent Seven” in the House of Representatives.

Named respondents are Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III, House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana, Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno and Armed Forces of the Philippines Chief-of-Staff General Rey Leonardo Guerrero.

The petitioners said that Pimental and Alvarez “unduly constricted” the period of deliberation and interpellation during the special joint session last December 13.

They said “the President’s request for extension was approved baselessly and with inordinate haste.”

President Duterte imposed martial law and suspended the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus in Mindanao for 60 days last May 23 on account of the Marawi City siege by the Maute Group and its followers.

Thereafter, the proclamation was extended by Congress up to Dec. 31, 2017 on request of the President.