POLICE PROPOSE TO EXTEND MARTIAL LAW IN MINDANAO

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is preparing a position paper explaining its proposal to extend martial law in Mindanao.

This document will contain the law enforcement perspective for an extended martial law, said PNP Director General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa on Thursday.

He, however, declined to reveal the additional number of days that they are proposing. He also declined to give their reasons, except to say that these are different from those of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

“I cannot give (yet the exact days the PNP wants martial law in Mindanao) extended but we have reasons to recommend it,” Dela Rosa said in Filipino.

President Rodrigo Duterte declared martial law in Mindanao on May 23 this year, shortly after clashes erupted between government troops and the Maute Group in Marawi City, Lanao del Sur. The troops had attempted to raid the hideout of Abu Sayyaf leader Isnilon Hapilon, allegedly the Islamic State leader in the Philippines.

Under the 1987 Constitution, martial law may be declared and the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus suspended for 60 days. In this case, the 60-day period will end on July 22.

Article 7, Section 18 of the Constitution stated “in case of invasion or rebellion, when the public safety requires it, the President may, for a period not exceeding 60 days, suspend the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus, or place the Philippines or any part thereof under martial law.”

Upon the initiative of the President, the Congress may, in the same manner, extend the proclamation for a period to be determined by the Congress, if the invasion persists and public safety requires it.

Earlier, AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said a detailed assessment of the prevailing security situation needs to be completed before they will recommend an extension. He also said the military has not considered proposals to expand martial law to the Visayas and Luzon.