A LOOMING extension of martial law in Mindanao until the end of 2017 is not expected to disrupt business and economic activities in the region, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Ernesto Pernia said on Thursday. In a press conference in Malacañang, Pernia, who is also the director general of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), said the declaration of martial law in Mindanao even assures investors’ safety. In fact, they feel safer and more confident about the investment or business environment in Mindanao in general. As you know, the conflict is only limited to a small area in Mindanao — small fraction of the whole island,” he added. As of July 19, the government has reported the deaths of 45 civilians, 421 Islamist militants, and 99 government forces in the ongoing armed conflict in Marawi City.

Source: Manila Times July 20, 2017 05:37 UTC