Mindanao people like martial law – Esperon

The absence of strong objection from the people in Mindanao was one reason given by security officials why martial law should be extended in the area for another year.

National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon admitted this on Tuesday when sought to confirm Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon’s claim that the military has recommended the one-year extension because of its “psychological impact.”

“Psychological…By psychological, we mean it’s really to the liking of the majority of Mindanaoans. There’s not much objection to it especially by Mindanao people,” Esperon told reporters after they briefed senators on the extension being sought by President Rodrigo Duterte.

Palace and security officials started their meeting with the senators Tuesday morning.

But Esperon said the psychological reason was just “one characteristic” of martial law.

“But what are we trying to do in Mindanao? Defeat terrorism, pursue the war on drugs, reforms in the local level and general reform. Number 4, shepherd the peace process. Number 5, pursue the much needed economic development. Who will disagree with that?” he stressed.

Esperon maintained that the martial law extension was needed to defeat terrorist groups like the extremists and communist rebels.

Asked if terrorism could not be defeated without martial law, Esperon said: “Kailangan natin because time is of the essence. Ngayon na mahina ung ISIS, i-apply natin ang lahat kesa magbigay ka na naman ng panahon para lumakas sila…e mahuhuli tayo…” Esperon said.

Drilon earlier said the psychological reason was not a valid basis for the martial law extension.

“Apparently, the Armed Forces has recommended the extension of martial law for its psychological impact. I’m afraid that is not a valid basis for the extension of martial law,” the minority leader said.

READ: Drilon: Martial law for ‘psychological impact’ invalid basis for extension

/kga