Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, July 7) — The Armed Forces of the Philippines said on Friday it hopes to submit its recommendation next week on the lifting or extension of martial law in Mindanao.
AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla said President Rodrigo Duterte expects to receive the recommendation on the martial law declaration, known as Proclamation No. 216, before the 60-day period ends, which is on July 22.
“Ang alam ko, ginagawa pa ‘yung assessment. Hindi pa rin po natin batid kung ito ay recommendation for the extension or for the lifting,” he said in a press briefing.
The Supreme Court in its July 4 ruling mentioned the possibility of extending martial law beyond 60 days.
“Until now the Court is in a quandary and can only speculate whether the 60-day lifespan of Proclamation no. 216 could outlive the present hostilities in Mindanao,” the ruling read.
President Duterte has said any decision to extend or lift martial law in Mindanao depends on an assessment by military and police. Martial law was declared there on May 23 as fighting broke out between government troops and the local terror group ISIS-linked Maute.
Under the 1987 Constitution, there are safeguards against the abuse of martial law, such as a review by Congress of a President’s declaration, and a 60-day limit. The 60th day falls on July 22, two days before the President’s State of the Nation Address
House Majority Leader Rudy Fariñas said he will support the President if he requests Congress to extend his proclamation.
“President Duterte has shown that he is true to his oath to support and defend the Constitution, and our people continue to express their trust and confidence in him. We should all support him,” he said in a statement.
Some senators have also expressed their support for a possible extension of military rule in Mindanao.
The fighting in Marawi City continues on its 46th day with government taking control of most of Marawi City despite a protracted battle with dozens of Maute gunmen.
Padilla said about 1,000 more houses in Marawi City need to be cleared of bombs and improvised explosive devices.
CNN Philippines’ Senior Correspondent Ina Andolong contributed to this report
