Año backs possible declaration of martial law due to NPA attacks

Interior Secretary Eduardo Año on Monday expressed support to the possible declaration of martial law due to the recent activities of New People’s Army (NPA) rebels amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Interviewed on Unang Hirit, Año said some rebels have been attacking local officials and their escorts who were distributing the government's social amelioration aid to residents affected by the health crisis.

“Kaya nagbabala ang Pangulo na kung magtutuloy-tuloy ang ganyan at lalo pa nilang aatakihin yung mga tumutulong at escort ng ating barangay officials ay sabi niya idedeklara niya ang martial law,” Año, a former military chief of staff, said.

“Kung dumating ang pagkakataon na ‘yan, talagang susuportahan natin ang ating Pangulo,” he added.

Duterte earlier threatened to declare martial law to eradicate the NPA following the report rom the military that communist rebels blocked the aid intended for Samar.

On Friday, a police officer and a local government official were wounded after alleged NPA gunmen attacked a police vehicle in Masbate's Monreal town.

“Ito ‘yung pagkakataon na na nakita natin na kung saan nagkakaroon ng crisis, ay tsaka para sinasamantala,” Año said.

Senators have mixed reactions about declaring a martial law amid the COVID-19 situation. Some support the suggestion, while others are opposed to it. --Joviland Rita/KBK, GMA News