Pimentel expects to get formal bid to extend martial law in Mindanao next week

Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III said on Friday that he expects the Senate would receive formal request regarding the extension of martial law on Monday, December 11.

This developed as the Armed Forces of Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP) were reportedly recommending the extension of the marital rule in the region.

READ: AFP recommends extension of martial law in Mindanao

“I expect formal letter request for extension to be given to senate on Monday then I immediately will take this up with my colleagues,” Pimentel said in a text message to reporters.
The Congress will adjourn session on December 13 for a Christmas break.

But if the Malacañang would ask both chambers to study the martial law extension for one more year, Pimentel said the legislators have no choice but to hold a joint session.

“We have no choice. (Constitutional) duty ‘yan,” he said.

READ: Opposition senators turn down extension of martial law in Mindanao

Last May 23, President Rodrigo Duterte declared martial law in Mindanao after the Islamic State-inspired Maute Group attacked Marawi City in an attempt to establish a caliphate there.        /kga