MANILA, Philippines?There is not a chance that President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo will show up in the joint session of Congress deliberating on her martial law declaration in Maguindanao despite calls by some lawmakers, Speaker Prospero Nograles said Thursday.

?She need not show up, (it is) not required and mandated as the Senate President and I think it is not necessary,? Nograles said in a text message.

The House leader said that appearing in joint session of Congress was an option for the President. However, she instead chose to explain Proclamation 1959, which placed Maguindanao under martial rule, in writing.

Arroyo?s report was sufficient, Nograles said.

Executive Secretary Ermita, Justice Secretary Agnes Devanadera, Interior and Local Government Secretary Ronaldo Puno, Philippine National Police chief Jesus Verzosa, Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff Victor Ibrado, and Defense Undersecretary Antonio Santos, in place of Defense Secretary Norberto Gonzales, were present during the opening of the historic joint session on Wednesday to defend the proclamation.

Maguindanao Representative Didagen Dilangalen demanded Arroyo?s presence during the joint session, saying she should personally explain her proclamation to the people.

Several lawmakers have also called for the President?s appearance in the session.

Nograles and Majority Leader Arthur Defensor lauded the full cooperation of the lawmakers for the smooth proceedings.

The joint session will resume later today at 2 p.m.