DND studying Mindanao martial law extension
Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana. FILE PHOTO
The Department of National Defense is studying the possible extension of martial law in Mindanao, as the 60-day declaration ends in a few weeks.
“We are still studying the situation on the ground not only in Marawi, Lanao de Sur but all over Mindanao,” Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana told reporters on Tuesday.
“Malalaman natin ‘yan in a couple of weeks (We will know in a couple of weeks). We will make our own recommendation,” he said.
President Rodrigo Duterte declared martial law in the entire Mindanao for 60 days on May 23, when clashes flared between government troops and the IS-linked Maute group in Marawi City. It has so far left hundreds dead and thousands displaced.
The martial law declaration will end on July 23.
Also on Tuesday, the Supreme Court affirmed the President’s declaration of martial law in the entire Mindanao, with a voting of 11-3-1.
READ: SC upholds validity of martial law in Mindanao
“Personally, I’m happy that the Supreme Court may find that it has legal basis so that we can continue our job properly until the end of martial law,” Lorenzana told reporters shortly before the Supreme Court decision. JE
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