Minority senators: Lift Mindanao martial law, focus on Marawi rehab

Minority senators on Saturday called on President Rodrigo duterte to lift martial law in Mindanao and focus on the rehabilitation of the war-torn Marawi City.

Senators Ban Aquino, Franklin Drilon, Risa Hontiveros, Kiko Pangilinan, and Antonio Trillanes IV said in a statement that the government should now focus on the rehabilitation of war-torn Marawi City.

"We propose that the martial law in Mindanao be lifted as soon as possible so that we can all focus on the rehabilitation of the devastated lives and livelihoods of the people of Marawi City and nearby areas. We oppose any move to extend military rule in Mindanao beyond the December 31 deadline granted by Congress," the minority senators said.

The senators pointed out that the military itself had declared Marawi free of the Maute-led terrorists after five months of armed confrontation.

The senators said there is no longer any reason for the region to be placed under martial law.

"Mismong militar na ang nagdeklarang malaya na ang Marawi City mula sa kuko ng teroristang Maute kaya wala nang dahilan pa upang palawigin ang batas militar sa rehiyon. Ang sinasabing banta sa kaayusan at krimen ay maaari nang tugunan ng mga pulis," they said.

They added that they are ready to "support the government plans and programs to bring Marawi City back on its feet."

President Rodrigo Duterte initially declared a 60-day martial law in Mindanao on May 23, following the attack of ISIS-inspired Maute group in Marawi. It was extended until December 31, 2017.

In an earlier press briefing, presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said Duterte may decide on whether to extend martial law in Mindanao this coming week or the next.

Roque said the Armed Forces of the Philippines is expected to submit next week its recommendation to Duterte. —Jessica Bartolome/ALG, GMA News