AFP readies presentation for Congress to extend martial law anew

The Armed Forces of the Philippines on Sunday said it is preparing a presentation to convince Senate and the House of Representatives of the AFP's justification for the need to extend again the martial law in Mindanao, for another one year.

AFP public affairs chief Noel Detoyato expressed confidence that the lawmakers will will be convinced during the joint session on Wednesday,  considering the ongoing threats to security of the southern Philippines.

"We already prepared a presentation, we are prepared for that (presentation)...We are going to make the presentation this week. Our cognizant staff members are already prepared for that," said Detoyato.

President Duterte declared martial law in Mindanao shortly after the Daesh-inspired Maute Group occupied several barangays in Marawi City in May last year.

The military rule was twice extended by Congress: first was from July 22 to December 31 last year, and the second was from December 31 last year to Dec. 31 this year.

Last Friday, Presidential spokesman Salvador Panelo said the President has already requested Congress to extend martial law for one year.

If the proposed extension is approved, Detoyato vowed there will be no additional forces to be deployed in Mindanao.

"They are properly deployed. The game plan is already there, and we have the advantage under the game plan so we cannot stop. We are going to sustain,” said Detoyato. —Joviland Rita/LBG, GMA News