MANILA, Philippines — National Security Adviser Hermogenes Esperon Jr. is in favor of extending martial law in Mindanao if groups loyal to ISIS pose a serious threat to public safety. Esperon said he is in favor of extending martial law if necessary but believes that government forces have enough leeway to address the ISIS threat by yearend. If the obtaining conditions so necessitate," the national security adviser said when asked to clarify his views on extending martial law. Esperon believes that the reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts in Marawi would also benefit from the implementation of martial law. The legislature, which is dominated by Duterte’s allies, voted to extend martial law until December 31.

Source: Philippine Star October 25, 2017 10:18 UTC