Zambo provinces support extended martial law

ZAMBOANGA CITY – The Zamboanga peninsula Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) will continue to support martial law in Mindanao even though the crisis in Marawi has ended, an official said yesterday.

Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar, RPOC chairperson, said tightened security following the declaration of martial law improved peace and order in the region.

Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay and Isabela City in Basilan comprise the Zamboanga peninsula.

President Duterte declared Marawi liberated from terrorists on Oct. 17 while military officials said fighting with Maute militants, which started on May 23, ended last Monday.

However, the President said martial law would stay “until the last terrorist is taken out.”

Salazar said Muslims, Christians and lumads in the region have been cooperating in the implementation of security measures including the no ID, no entry policy since martial law was declared in Mindanao on May 24.

In a resolution approved last June, the RPOC backed the declaration of martial law and the proposal for a national identification system, saying it would address security concerns in Mindanao.

Salazar said the RPOC would take the cue from the President on the implementation of martial law. “We will await the order of the President,” she said.

Meanwhile, the city government said it would honor soldiers who fought in Marawi upon their return to their respective units.