'KILLINGS NOT GROUND FOR MARTIAL LAW'

Malacañang said Monday, July 9, that the killing of two mayors and one vice mayor in just one week does not constitute grounds for the declaration of martial law nationwide. “Martial law is only for rebellion or invasion,” Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque Jr. told a press conference. “These are the two grounds (for the declaration of martial law). Despite the series of killings, if there is no rebellion or invasion, there is no reason to impose martial law in the entire Philippines,” he added. On Saturday, July 7, opposition Senator Francis Pangilinan warned of a looming martial law in the entire country, following the killing of Tanauan City Mayor Antonio Halili, General Tinio town Mayor Ferdinand Bote and Trece Martires City Vice Mayor Alexander Lubigan. Halili was killed on July 2, Bote on July 3 and Lubigan on July 7. “What is going on? Are these deliberate and orchestrated attempts at creating an atmosphere of lawlessness to justify strongman rule?” Pangilinan asked.