ADVERTISEMENTPresidential spokesperson Harry Roque said President Rodrigo Duterte does not share the same view as Panelo over the controversial remark. During his program over a state-run television network, Panelo said that the definition of “invasion” is no longer confined to other nations using armed forces to occupy a country and therefore can be grounds to declare martial law. Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Menardo Guevarra pointed out that in the context of declaring martial law, “invasion” refers to “invasion of a country by foreign armed forces.” Roque agreed to Guevarra’s statement. Under the 1987 Constitution, the President may only proclaim martial law in case of invasion and rebellion when the public safety requires it. For more information on COVID-19, call the DOH Hotline: (02) 86517800 local 1149/1150.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer May 05, 2020 13:30 UTC