QUEZON City, Philippines (Eagle News) — President Rodrigo Duterte said he will have to study very carefully and ponder on the suggestion for him to declare martial law in Mindanao, particularly in Sulu, to counter the Abu Sayyaf problem.
“I need time to ponder on it (declaring martial law) deeply. And it is not only a political decision; it is an emotional decision. You do not tinker with powers, [with] extraordinary powers of the state,” the President said in a press conference in Davao early Tuesday morning upon his return from China.
“I will not just tinker with it as if it’s a play thing. It’s a very serious one,” he added.
The statement came after President Duterte received the plea of the “Save Sulu” Movement to place under martial law six of 19 municipalities in Sulu due to the Abu Sayyaf problem being encountered in these areas.
Duterte warned that if ever he declares martial law in Mindanao, this would be not only to solve the Abu Sayyaf problem, but to resolve all problems in Mindanao.
“I’m warning everybody, if I declare martial law, there’s no telling how long it would be and for what purpose,” he added.
“If I do, I would solve not only rebellion, I will solve everything that ails Mindanao. Pati iyan boundary sa lupa,” he said.