Another martial law extension? AFP to look at various parameters

The military will look at various parameters in deciding if it will recommend yet another extension of martial law in Mindanao, the spokesman of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said on Wednesday.

"One of those variables is the prevailing security situation on the ground as it bears on the constitutional requirement for martial law," Marine Brigadier General Edgard Arevalo said.

"Another consideration is the approval of important amendments to and introduction of new provisions in the existing Human Security Act that the DND (Department of National Defense) is espousing which will be key to our recommendation," he added.

According to Arevalo, it will also take into account the assessments of local chief executives.

On Tuesday, National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. said he would recommend the extension of martial law in Mindanao for another year due to continued rebellion in the region.

He cited the recent bomb attacks in Mindanao, including those believed to be carried out by suicide bombers.

“Let us see how we will improve in December," Esperon said.

Mindanao has been placed under martial law since May 2017 following the attack of ISIS-inspired Maute group in Marawi City.

It was initially valid only for 60 days, but President Rodrigo Duterte requested to extend it thrice. Martial law is due to end on December 31, 2019. — RSJ, GMA News