Colmenares: 3rd martial law extension paves way for imposing it nationwide

Former representative and Bayan Muna Chairman Neri Colmenares. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO / NINO JESUS ORBETA

MANILA, Philippines — Bayan Muna Chairman Neri Colmenares is apprehensive that the Supreme Court’s (SC) decision affirming the legality of the third martial law extension could pave the way for a nationwide martial law.

“The Supreme Court has once again stretched the boundaries of judicial interpretation by upholding Congress’ approval of Pres. Duterte’s extension of martial law in Mindanao,” Colmenares said in a statement on Tuesday.

“It paves the way for imposing martial law nationwide even if there is no threat to public safety,” he added.

Colmenares issued the statement after the SC, voting 9-4 upheld the legality of another round of martial law up to Dec. 31, 2019.

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

Colmenares maintained that imposing martial law requires “actual invasion or rebellion if the public safety requires it” as per the 1987 Constitution.

He also advised that if rebellion exists and public safety is not threatened, the President may use the military’s powers to end the rebellion.

“Thus, even if rebellion exists, if public safety is not threatened, the president can use his calling out powers for the military to quell rebellion, not martial law,” Colmenares said. /je