DND says martial law an important step in stopping terrorists

The Department of National Defense (DND) on Wednesday said the martial law declaration of President Rodrigo Duterte in Mindanao is an important step in ensuring public safety amid the clashes between the military and the Maute Group in Marawi City.

"The imposition of martial law in Mindanao is a necessary step in order for government security forces to stop the threat that these terrorists pose, who are mostly not originally from Marawi," the department said in a press statement.

The DND also allayed fears about Duterte's declaration, saying the martial rule will not suspend the Constitution.

Martial law, the DND said, authorizes the military to "take over law enforcement operations from the Philippine National Police, and conduct arrests and searches in accordance with the rule of law and human rights."

The DND also urged Mindanaoans to be "security conscious at all times and remain vigilant in your day to day activities." It, nonetheless, assured the public that government law enforcers are on top of the situation in Marawi City.

"Rest assured that the situation in Marawi City is already contained. With the deployment of additional forces, it is only a matter of time before we take all these evil doers down," the statement said.

The military also dispatched additional troops to reinforce those already deployed in Marawi City.

Meanwhile, the DND also called on the public to help the military in its operations by refraining from sharing fake information on the internet.

"We appeal to the public to help our troops on the ground and counter the misinformation campaign from terrorist supporters by being very selective and responsible in sharing critical information on new media and other platforms," it said.

The agency added that "it is better to report any suspicious activities in your areas directly to the proper authorities."

"What is happening in the city of Marawi and Mindanao is another challenge that we can overcome together. We must stand united against a common enemy- terrorists and the fear they want to sow among the innocent," the DND said. —Joseph Tristan Roxas/KBK, GMA News