Senate receives briefing from AFP, PNP on Mindanao martial law extension

The Senate went on executive session Monday to receive a briefing from the military and police on the peace and order situation in Mindanao amid the recommendation to extend the imposition of martial law in southern Philippines.

Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri moved that the session be suspended for the senators to be briefed by security officials.

Senate President Vicente Sotto III enjoined all the senators to join the briefing to be conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Philippine National Police at the senators’ lounge.

At least 15 senators were present on the floor.

The lawmakers earlier said they wanted the security officials to discuss with them the situation before the go on joint session on Wednesday.

AFP public affairs chief Colonel Noel Detoyato on Sunday expressed confidence that the lawmakers will be convinced to extend martial law considering the ongoing threats to security of southern Philippines. 

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

The martial 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. — Amita Legaspi/RSJ, GMA News