Arroyo to support martial law extension

HOUSE Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo will recommend the approval of the looming proposal to extend martial law in Mindanao.

"If it comes to our Chamber, I will recommend that we pass it,” said Arroyo when interviewed by the media on Wednesday, December 5. She did not elaborate.

Majority Leader Rolando Andaya Jr. earlier expressed support for a resolution to extend martial law in Mindanao for another year.

Philippine National Police Chief Oscar Albayalde and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief-of-Staff Carlito Galvez Jr. have signed a document formally recommending the extension.

Galvez said they based their recommendation on the “clamor” for the extension due to the recent bombings in Mindanao and the presence of terrorists in the region. The police backed this, saying they have to secure the Bangsamoro Basic Law plebiscite and the May 2019 polls.

This was slammed by opposition lawmakers saying the grounds cited are unconstitutional and not grounds for the extension of martial law.

The House of Representatives has yet to receive a request from the President on the matter. Congress is set to adjourn for the holidays on December 12.

Martial law in Mindanao, imposed after clashes between the Maute Group and government forces erupted in May 2017 in Marawi City, will expire on December 31. Its imposition was extended twice by the 17th Congress. (SunStar Philippines)