MANILA, Philippines – Lawmakers who opposed the extension of martial law in Mindanao assailed House Speaker Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Thursday for restricting the time for congressmen’s interpellation and explanation of votes. Albay 1st District Rep. Edcel Lagman branded this as another “martial law” that restricted the freedom of expression of senators and House members. As a “deliberative assembly,” Congress should “allow the free rein of interpellation and debate on crucial issues like a third extension of martial law in Mindanao,” according to Lagman. The opposition lawmaker also stressed martial rule should be “discussed exhaustively because we are dealing with lives of the Mindanaoans.”“Kung lilimitahan natin nang sobrang iksi ang oras para magpaliwanag, parang martial law na rin sa loob ng Kongreso,” he added in a statement. In a joint session on Wednesday, Congress granted President Rodrigo Duterte’s request to extend martial law in Mindanao until Dec. 31, 2019.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer December 13, 2018 05:48 UTC