Martial law in Mindanao could last for an extended period.

(Baonghean.vn) - On November 17, the spokesperson for the Philippine Armed Forces (AFP), Brigadier General Restituto Padilla, stated that despite the liberation of Marawi City, Mindanao province will remain under martial law due to the ongoing threat from domestic terrorist groups.

Military forces remain stationed in Mindanao. Photo: AP

Speaking at a press conference at the Presidential Palace, Padilla stated that a network of aggressive local terrorists still exists – a basis for the possibility of extending martial law in Mindanao if this issue is not thoroughly resolved by the end of this year at the latest. However, Padilla reassured the public that government forces are making every effort to thwart any potential terrorist attacks by Islamist militants.

Mr. Padilla emphasized: “We are working towards (the lifting of martial law in Mindanao). We hope to resolve and normalize things by the end of this year at the latest, as that is the deadline we have set. But regardless, the network of local terrorist groups still exists, and this is an issue we are working to address.”

Martial law was declared in Mindanao province on May 23rd, the same day fighting broke out in Marawi. According to the 1987 Constitution, this state of law is limited to 60 days.

However, at the request of President Rodrigo Duterte, Congress has extended martial law until December 31st.

The conflict in Marawi has ended after 154 days of intense fighting between government forces and the Maute terrorist group, resulting in the deaths of over 100 soldiers and at least 47 civilians, the elimination of approximately 800 terrorists, and the displacement of 500,000 people.

Lan Ha

(According to Manila Times)