Palace: Martial law extension in Mindanao a ‘positive development’

MANILA, Philippines — The extension of martial law in Mindanao for another year is a “positive development,” Malacañang said Wednesday.

“We thank our lawmakers for sharing the Executive’s view that the extension is purely intended for the general welfare and well being of the people of Mindanao,” Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a statement.

“Public safety demands decisive action from our President, whose primordial mandate is to protect and serve the people. Further, it is our shared responsibility to ensure the integrity of our nation, the security of our people and the sustained growth and development of Mindanao,” he added.

For the third time, both houses of Congress approved on Wednesday President Duterte’s request to extend martial law in Mindanao for another year to continue the government’s thrust against terrorism.

With a final total vote of 235 for an extension, 28 against and one abstention, Congress voted to extend martial rule in the South until Dec. 31, 2019.

READ: Congress okays 3rd martial law extension in Mindanao

With the fresh extension of martial law, Panelo said “we expect to achieve substantial progress in addressing the persisting rebellion in Mindanao, as well as promoting the overall security and peace and order situation in the island.”

“Rest assured that the fundamental rights and liberties of our citizens shall at all times be respected and that our uniformed services shall act strictly within the confines of their mandate,” Panelo said. /ee