Gen. Gilbert Gapay said his unit has not received reports of human rights violations involving soldiers enforcing martial law. Abella chided critics who claim that the martial law declaration has resulted in abuses like forcible evacuation, indiscriminate bombardment and destruction of properties. Mindanao Development Authority chairman Abdul Khayr Alonto said he is in favor of extending martial law if necessary. “If this (crisis) will not be resolved, even the extension, if it will be the recommendation of our executive people through our martial law administrator… and if they feel that there is a need to extend martial law, then we are asking for it,” Alonto said. Pimentel has stated that any talk about extending martial law should not come from Congress but from the executive branch.

Source: Philippine Star June 23, 2017 16:07 UTC