OSG hails SC ruling on legality of 3rd martial law extension in Mindanao

MANILA, Philippines — The Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) on Tuesday welcomed the decision of the Supreme Court, upholding the legality of the third extension of martial law in Mindanao.

“This decision, together with the successful conduct of the Bangsamoro plebiscite, is a significant step towards achieving lasting peace in Mindanao,” OSG said in a statement.

“Let us continue to support the government’s efforts towards a stronger Philippines,” it added.

Voting 9-4, the high court affirmed the third extension of martial law in Mindanao.

READ: Supreme Court OKs 3rd martial law extension in Mindanao

Meanwhile, the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) creating the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) has been “deemed ratified” after the “yes” votes in majority of provinces and cities of present Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) last January 25.

READ: Yes votes have it: Law creating Bangsamoro region ratified

The BARMM, which would replace ARMM, would have a broader autonomy, power and resources, and larger territory since it would also now include 63 barangays in North Cotabato. /kga