No discussion on no-el, martial law amid COVID-19 pandemic, says Guevarra

There is no discussion in the Duterte administration on the imposition of martial law amid the steep increase in the number of COVID-19 cases nationwide, Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said on Friday.

In an episode of "The Mangahas Interviews", Guevarra said there was no way a declaration martial law could be made without violating the Constitution.

"I don't think it is possible to have that scenario. Unang-una, hindi allowed 'yan under the constitution," Guevarra told journalist Malou Mangahas when asked about reports of a "no-election" scenario.

"It can only happen if your disregard the Constitution. And that is to say you are imposing a revolutionary government," he added.

On whether President Rodrigo Duterte can summon his martial law powers to address the national medical emergency, Guevarra said, "Legally, no."

"Maliwanag ang sinasabi ng Constitution. Actual rebellion or invasion," Guevarra said in reference to the only reasons a president may declare martial law. —NB, GMA News