PNP ‘fully supports’ extension of martial law in Mindanao – Bato

The Philippine National Police (PNP) is supportive of President Rodrigo Duterte’s request for one year extension of martial law in Mindanao, PNP chief Director General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa said on Tuesday.

“Full support kami sa effort na ‘yan lalo na para sa kabutihan ng bansa,” said Dela Rosa, who just returned from a conference with the United States counterterrorism task force in New York.

“Very complicated ang terrorism kahit napatay na lahat ng members ng ISIS (Islamic State) nandyan parin ang ISIS at they can still recruit via the Internet,” he added.

Last Monday, Duterte formally asked Congress to extend martial law in the southern island until the end of 2018, following recommendations from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

He said this move was aimed at “totally eradicating” insurgency in the region given the apparent threat of terrorism and rebellion there.

READ: Duterte formally asks Congress to extend martial law in Mindanao ‘til end of 2018

Congress earlier granted the Mr. Duterte’s request to extend martial law in Mindanao until December 31, 2017, after placing the entire region under military rule last May 23 following the siege of Marawi City by terrorist organization, Maute group, which attempted to establish an Islamic State-inspired caliphate there.

Members of the House of Representatives and the Senate will hold a joint session on Wednesday, December 13, to discuss Mr. Duterte’s request to extend martial law in Mindanao from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2018.              /kga