Albayalde: Martial law extension good for Mindanao elections

The third extension of martial law in Mindanao would be advantageous to the region and ensure peace and order in the upcoming elections, Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Oscar Albayalde said on Monday.

Albayalde said with martial law, the crime rate in the region has significantly dropped, and Mindanaoans back its extension.

“If ever they will ask for the agency’s position, we will support the extension especially with the upcoming elections,” the PNP chief said in a press briefing.

According to Albayalde, there is no recorded abuse by law enforcers in Mindanao, contrary to the claims of some groups.

“There is no oppression going on there as some people allege,” he said. “There is no curtailment of freedom. Nothing.”

He said that if President Rodrigo Duterte seeks to extend the martial law, the PNP will support the move.

President Duterte declared martial law in Mindanao in May 2017 after the ISIS-inspired Maute Group ravaged Marawi City.

Before the 60-day period expired in July last year, he asked Congress for an extension until December 2017. He requested for another extension until December 31, 2018, citing continuous threat from the New People’s Army. /ee

READ: PNP backs third extension of martial law in Mindanao