BACOLOD CITY –– With or without martial law, an official of the military promised to do everything to end the atrocities in Negros Oriental.
“We just have to do our best and ensure that the senseless killings are stopped. It should be stopped now and there is no reason to wait for any other development,” Brig. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, commander of the 303rd Infantry Brigade, said.
He said they have not received a warning nor were asked to recommend whether or not to put Negros Oriental under martial law.
“So, as of now, this is still speculation that I hear in the media. If it comes, we will obey the orders. If it is not declared, then we will continue to ensure the safety of the people of NOR,” he said.
“Definitely, we are still on top of the situation and we are optimistic that things will be normal especially with the creation of the Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict by Gov Degamo and with the support and cooperation of the people,” he added.
On Thursday, Presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo said President Duterte would likely invoke emergency powers soon and could possibly declare martial law in Negros Oriental due to the series of killings in the province. /lzb