Bishop to gov't: Consult community before lapping up iron law for Sulu

A Catholic bishop in Jolo on Wednesday appealed to authorities to consult stakeholders before making recommendations to impose martial law in Sulu, following Monday's twin blasts that left at least 15 people dead, and 75 others wounded.

In an interview on church-run Radio Veritas, Bishop Charlie Inzon, OMI, of the Apostolic Vicariate of Jolo said: “Maganda i-consult din muna ang stakeholders --local government, civil society organizations, religious groups, People's Organization [for any decision] to be successful.”

Inzon pointed out that any recommendations should be a product of consultations among stakeholders.

The bishop made the remark following the "push for martial law" by the military and police officials, especially Army chief Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, who had urged President Rodrigo Duterte to impose iron rule in Sulu province.

Last Monday, blasts rocked Jolo's Plaza Rizal, the first before noon and the second an hour later. The twin blasts were believed to be the handiwork of Mundi Sawadjaan, who is related to the Abu Sayyaf Group.

Inzon also emphasized "cooperation" between authorities and the majority Muslim community in Sulu.

“Community support and cooperation are important,” he pointed out.

Earlier on Wednesday, presidential spokesman Harry Roque said, “The President, of course, will consider this [martial law] recommendation as will both Congress and the Supreme Court. Although a recommendation has been made, the President has to be very careful that it would pass the scrutiny of both the legislative and judicial branches of government.” Roque said. —LBG, GMA News