DND issues guidance to AFP, bureaus on martial law implementation

The Department of National Defense has issued guidance to its bureaus and offices and to the Armed Forces of the Philippines on the implementation of martial law in Mindanao.

In a memorandum dated May 24, Eduardo del Rosario, DND officer-in-charge and Undersecretary for civil, veterans, and retiree affairs, said the rule of law and human rights should prevail in the area where martial law was declared and effective.

He said any arrest, search, or seizure, including the filing of charges should comply with the Revised Rules of Court and applicable jurisprudence.

"DND bureaus and agencies involved in humanitarian activities are hereby enjoined to institute appropriate action on those affected and displaced persons by providing adequate assistance in coordination with other government agencies," he said.

He said the declaration of martial law in Mindanao does not suspend the operation of the Constitution.

He reminded their offices and the AFP that it also does not supplement the functioning of Philippine judicial and legislative assemblies nor authorize the conferment of jurisdiction on military courts and agencies over civilian where civil courts are able to function.

President Rodrigo Duterte placed Mindanao under martial law Tuesday night following the clashes between government forces and the local terror group Maute in Marawi City.

He also suspended the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus in Mindanao.

The AFP earlier assured the public that they will ensure that there will be no human rights violation amid the martial law declaration. — RSJ, GMA News