IBP sees no reason yet to challenge legality of martial law in Mindanao

The country's mandatory organization of lawyers on Wednesday advised government forces to observe due process and the rule of law in the implementation of martial law in Mindanao aimed at neutralizing militants influenced by international terror group ISIS.

"We call on the Armed Forces and government agencies to wield this power with caution and regard for the rule of law," the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) said in a statement.

"The IBP supports all legal means to end this unrest in Mindanao and encourage the achievement of peace through lawful means," it added.

Upon his return from an abbreviated official visit to Russia, President Rodrigo Duterte said he declared martial law in the region to preserve peace and order following Tuesday's attack of the Maute group, who claim to be sympathizers of ISIS, in Marawi City.

The President also assured that he would not allow abuses to be committed on civilians, as he made an apparent reference to the constitutional guarantee that civilian courts and legislative bodies would still function under martial rule.

According to the IBP, the 1987 Constitution "is very clear on the authority of the President to declare martial law, the extent of the authority, and the remedies and safeguards against the abuse of that authority."

While the declaration may be revoked by Congress or reviewed by the Supreme Court, the IBP said it does not see any reason to challenge its legality at the moment.

"In view of what has happened in Marawi City, the imminent danger of the escalation and spread of the hostilities to other parts of Mindanao, and the existence of other terrorist groups operating in Mindanao that can take advantage of the unrest and cause criminal acts and disorder, the national leadership of the IBP sees no reason to question the declaration at this time," the IBP said.

"The public may rest assured that the Constitution is very clear on the fact that the declaration will not result to any diminution of their rights and that civil and judicial authorities will continue to function except in places where the continuation of such functions has been rendered difficult," the organization said.

Still, the lawyers said they would remain "steadfast in their commitment to uphold and defend the Constitution and vigilant against those who intend to curtail democracy and our fundamental freedom."

Duterte previously threatened to impose martial law, but in the context of the campaign against illegal drugs.

The bloody crackdown on prohibited drugs has left thousands of drug suspects and civilians dead, sparking alarm in the international community and human rights groups. — RSJ, GMA News