We need martial law extension in Mindanao simply because of the fact that previous measures, unaided with all-out military force, have been proven insufficient.
Martial rule and the concomitant suspension of the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus gives our government forces something that mere call-out powers or states of emergency cannot provide: wider latitude for action. Other than the paramount respect and adherence to the rule of law and human rights, the extension of prerogatives under President Duterte’s martial law, particularly the suspension of the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus, essentially frees our government and security forces from the usual bureaucratic procedures and processes attendant to the due prosecution of rebels and/or terrorists. Consequently, instead of getting in the way of their timely indictment, an inquiry on the legality or illegality of one’s arrest prevents individuals, who are found to be rebels and/or terrorists, to use the same to impede the administration of justice.
With the extended martial law and suspension of the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus in Mindanao, may the avid detractors of President Duterte’s solid policy against terrorism and rebellion realize the benefits that may be derived from the commander in chief’s exercise of such prerogative.
Martial law extension should not be regarded as if it is some plague or catastrophe that will shatter our country into pieces.
RECOLETO MONDEJAR, rixmondejar@outlook.com