Duterte requests Congress to extend Mindanao martial law anew

President Rodrigo Duterte has requested Congress to extend the implementation of martial law in Mindanao for the third time, Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea said Friday.

JUST-IN: As per Executive Sec. Salvador Medialdea, Pres. Duterte has requested Congress to extend Martial Law @gmanews

— Joseph Morong (@Joseph_Morong) December 7, 2018

"Yes," Medialdea said when asked by reporters if Duterte has already requested Congress to extend martial law.

Asked on coverage of extension, Medialdea said, "One year and Mindanao."

Both the military and the police have recommended the extension of martial law in Mindanao, which was first declared in May last year following the attack on Marawi City by the ISIS-inspired Maute terrorist group.

The declaration, which has been extended twice already, is set to expire on December 31, 2018.

Senate President Vicente Sotto III earlier said Duterte might call for a joint session of Congress to tackle the extension next week.

Meanwhile, the House of Representatives is awaiting official communication from Malacañang regarding request for another extension of martial law in Mindanao.

Majority Leader Rolando Andaya Jr. said they have not received any communication from the Palace.

But Andaya said the House is inclined to grant such a request.

"Ang hinihingi lang namin, sana magkaroon ng kumbaga parang LEDAC. Ma-explain din namin, kasama yung military, intelligence community at saka makonsulta rin yung mga taga-roon mismo," Andaya said.

An implementation of martial law means warrant-less arrest can be made on those suspected of committing rebellion and other related offenses. These suspects, however, should be charged within three days or they should be released.

Under the 1987 Constitution, the President can declare martial law in cases of rebellion, invasion or if public safety requires it. —Ted Cordero with Tina Panganiban-Perez/KBK/RSJ, GMA News