On Saturday, July 22, 2017, Congress approved the Extension of Martial Law in Mindanao until Dec. 31, 2017.
261 members of the Congress (both House and Senate) overwhelmingly favored to extend the Martial law in Mindanao, while 18 voted against it. The vote came as government troops continued their fight against Islamic State inspired militants. Duterte first declared martial law in Mindanao on May 23 shortly after the gunmen, waving the black flags of the IS group, occupied parts of Marawi, triggering a bloody fighting.
Security officials had told lawmakers that martial law was needed to stabilize the city where Islamic State was gaining influence. Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana warned of more serious problems if the government did not have the powers to act swiftly.
Military troops retook some of the Maute stronghold after weeks of artillery attacks and airstrikes, but estimated 70 militants remained holed up in the city center.
Military troops retook some of the Maute stronghold after weeks of artillery attacks and airstrikes, but estimated 70 militants remained holed up in the city center.
Martial law remains a sensitive issue in the Philippines as it brings back memories of human rights abuses occurred during Ferdinand Marcos. Opponents expressed fears Duterte might eventually place the entire Philippines under martial law, but pro martial law have dismissed the allegation.
Here's the resolution of both Houses No. 10 approving the extension of Martial Law in MindanaoLOOK: Resolution of Both Houses No. 10 approving the extension of martial law in Mindanao. @gmanews pic.twitter.com/ZjFQiZe7nQ— Erwin Colcol (@erwincolcol) July 22, 2017
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