Palace: State of lawlessness over PH constitutional
The declaration of President Rodrigo Duterte of a “state of lawlessness” in the entire country is constitutional, Malacañang said on Saturday.
Presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella said the declaration was based on Article VII Section 18 of the Constitution.
“The President shall be the Commander-in-Chief of all armed forces of the Philippines and whenever it becomes necessary, he may call out such armed forces to prevent or suppress lawless violence, invasion or rebellion,” Abella said, quoting Article VII Section 18 of the Constitution.
READ: Duterte: State of lawlessness part of duty to protect PH
On Saturday, Duterte declared a “state of lawlessness” in the country after the deadly explosion at a night market in his hometown Davao City.
The President said his declaration was “not martial law but it would require nationwide, well-coordinated efforts of the military and the police.”
Abella explained Duterte’s declaration saying, it was only limited to “calling out the armed forces to suppress the lawless violence.”
“I am not suspending the writ of habeas corpus,” Duterte said in a press briefing at the blast site.
READ: ‘Bato’ places PNP on full alert nationwide after Davao explosion
Abella said the state of lawlessness was a “different case from the existence of invasion or rebellion.”
“Only if there is invasion or rebellion, and when public safety requires it, can he suspend the writ of habeas corpus or declare martial law,” he said.
The Palace official urged the public to remain vigilant amid this terror attack.
“In the spirit of unity and love of country let us remain alert to the activities of those who wish to create chaos and prayerfully agree for Peace to reign in the land,” he said.
“It takes a courageous and united people who complain less and do more to build the nation we dream of and deserve,” he added. CDG
