Esperon: Martial law needed until yearend

MANILA - National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. said on Wednesday the martial law in Mindanao is still needed until the end of the year to allow the military to address potential terrorist threats in the region.

“Well, we have it up to December 31st so personally, I would like it to stay in place. Because while the combat operations are over, let us remember that there are probable and possible elements that would still carry on the affiliation to ISIS,” Esperon said in an interview on the sidelines of the turnover rites of Russia’s weapons to the Philippines.

Esperon was referring to the Abu Sayyaf Group, Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters and other radicalized elements, who purportedly pledged fealty to Islamic State (IS) jihadist group.

The National Security Adviser said he would not recommend the lifting

of the martial law in Mindanao even after the government troops were able to regain control of Marawi City, after nearly five months of battle.

Duterte was compelled to place embattled Mindanao under martial on May 23 following the siege of IS-affiliated extremists, led by the Maute group, to Marawi City.

The Chief Executive’s martial law declaration was extended by Congress until December 31, 2017 to completely quell the rebellion in the south.

Nearly five months after the rise of Marawi conflict, the Philippine government claimed victory on October 23 after security personnel killed the remaining terrorist leaders in the southern city.

Duterte on October 17 said the liberation of Marawi City marks the beginning of rehabilitation efforts in the besieged city.SunStar Philippines