As everyone expected, Congress approved yesterday by an overwhelming vote the extension of martial law all over Mindanao by a year. With the unsurprising congressional approval, the government must focus on two things: explaining the basis for the extension, and producing results. This time, the reason for a second – and much longer – extension of martial law is less clear. Public acceptance of this prolonged martial law will depend on the way security forces comport themselves in dealing with threat groups. The AFP and support teams from the police generally enjoyed public support in Marawi.

Source: Philippine Star December 13, 2017 16:36 UTC