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[av_heading heading=’Duterte allies in House OK martial law extension’ tag=’h3′ style=’blockquote modern-quote’ size=” subheading_active=’subheading_below’ subheading_size=’15’ padding=’10’ color=” custom_font=”]
BY ADRIAN STEWART CO
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MANILA – Allies of President Rodrigo Duterte in the House of Representatives said yesterday they are open to the extension of martial law in Mindanao if the conflict in the region, including Marawi City, remains untenable.
“President Duterte deserves the support of Congress to finally end the Marawi crisis,” said Raneo Abu (Batangas). “We believe in the chief executive’s determination to end the conflict, and he has no tendency of abusing his authority.”
Abu cited a recent Commission on Human Rights report that it has not received any complaint on rights violations in Mindanao under martial law.
Robert Ace Barbers (Surigao del Norte), on the other hand, said he supports the proposal of Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez to extend the 60-day martial law since the fighting has not yet ended.
“I will support any extension as long as there is still imminent threat of terrorism, rebellion and invasion perpetrated by ISIS, Maute group and Abu Sayyaf Group,” said Barbers.
Meanwhile Ben Evardone (Eastern Samar) sees no problem in extending martial law “if the situation warrants for it.” Gus Tambunting (Parañaque City) believes in the same, especially with the situation in Marawi “not improving.”
Duterte declared martial law in Mindanao on May 23 following the clash between government troops and the Islamic State-linked Maute group in Marawi.
Several critics lodged petitions against the proclamation at the Supreme Court. The high court had started oral arguments on the petitions./PN
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