Martial law ‘fastest way’ to quell rebellion

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte said Monday that he was compelled to declare martial law in Mindanao, believing that it is the “fastest way” to suppress hostile acts in the southern Philippines.

Duterte made the statement during his second State of the Nation Address (Sona) held at Batasan Pambansa in Quezon City, two days after lawmakers granted his proposal to extend the military rule in another five months.

Duterte said the martial law would enable the military to arrest, detain, and question sympathizers of rebellion in the besieged region.

“I declared martial law in Mindanao because I believe that it’s the fastest way to quell rebellion in Mindanao,” Duterte said in his Sona.

“I am reiterating my unwavering support and commitment to the armed forces and members of the police force. Those who are on the ground and the battlefield risking their lives for our country and democracy, I have your backs,” he added.

On May 23, Duterte placed Mindanao under martial rule after security forces, who were initially tasked to arrest Abu Sayyaf leader and alleged Islamic State emir Isnilon Hapilon, were engaged in a firefight with Maute terror group.

The death toll in Marawi crisis has risen to 565, as of 6 p.m., July 19. The casualties include 421 Islamist fighters, 99 government troops, and 45 civilians.

Martial law in Mindanao, which lapsed on July 22 after reaching the 60-day period, was extended by Congress until the end of December this year upon the President’s discretion. (SunStar Philippines)