Esperon cites add’l measures against terrorism

MANILA -- Sharing the view of Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on the lifting of martial law in Mindanao by yearend, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. cited the need for additional measures against terrorism.

“We have the same position. I know the security arrangement in Davao City and other urban centers there so kung kaya (We have the same position. I know the security arrangement in Davao City and other urban centers there so we are capable of doing it),” he told journalists after the opening ceremony of the three-day 5th CounterTerrorism Financing (CTF) Summit in Shangri-La at the Fort on Tuesday.

Martial law was raised over Mindanao on May 23, 2017 after the series of attacks by the Maute Group in Marawi City.

The 60-day martial rule in the country’s largest island group was extended thrice in line with the government’s bid to neutralize terror groups operating in the south.

Esperon said the decision for the eventual lifting of the martial law depends on President Rodrigo R.