President Rodrigo Duterte will adhere to the rule of law, Malacañang reiterated on Wednesday, amid Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Ronald de la Rosa’s call for possible extension of martial law in Mindanao. “The President has repeatedly stressed that the Philippines abides by the rule of law, and extending martial law would be based solely on the assessment and recommendation of the military and the police,” Abella said. Abella issued the statement after De la Rosa said on Tuesday that he would recommend a martial law extension if the President asked his opinion. “Because it is still dangerous in that area (Marawi City).”Martial law in Mindanao was declared on May 23, after the fighting in Marawi City broke out. The 60-day declaration period will end on July 22, and some lawmakers are pushing for the five-year extension of martial law.

Source: Manila Times July 12, 2017 07:07 UTC